Jul 23 2019

5 Noticeable Symptoms of Worn Shocks

Shock absorbers have a huge significance in the proper functioning of the car. This part of your suspension system does more than contributing to a smooth ride. The primary purpose of these is to maintain control of the vehicle. Since bad or worn shock can turn a comfortable ride into an uncomfortable one, even safety on road can become a major issue, learn how to determine if the shock absorbers need to be replaced. Here are some symptoms of worn or failing shocks.

•    Uneven Wear Appearing on your Tires

Uneven wear on the tires is a major red flag indicating that there is a problem with the shock absorbers. Worn shocks cannot keep your tires firmly on the road. It results in the patchy areas of wear. To perform ideally, tires should maintain uniform contact with the road. Uneven tire wear can lead to other problems.

•    Rocking, Rolling, and Rattling

If your vehicle shakes, rattles and rocks hardly when driving over minor road bumps or railroad tracks, it could be worn shocks. Since the shocks are responsible for controlling the impact and vibration of a vehicle’s springs, worn shocks won’t be able to perform their function properly. In addition to discomfort on the road, a rattling ride can put undue pressure on other parts of the car.

•    Swerving and Dipping when applying Your Brakes

Blame worn shock if the front end of your car dips noticeably when you apply brakes.  Be careful since this symptom could be especially dangerous in wet weather.

•    Excessive Vibration in your Steering Wheel

A little vibration on the uneven road surface is normal but it should not happen on the smoother road. If there is a contact vibration in the steering wheel when you are driving it could due to worn shocks.  These vibrations could be extreme on the highway and your ability to hamper control the car.

•    Delayed or Longer Stopping Distances

Worn shock absorbers can significantly increase the braking distance of your car. It could be a difference between a safe stop and an accident. You may be tempted to get your brake checked. However, it could be due to other reasons including worn shocks. So, contact with an experienced mechanic to determine the real culprit behind this.