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Shock absorbers – how to recognize signs of their wear.

5 May 2025
Samochód terenowy pokonujący trudny, kamienisty szlak w ekstremalnych warunkach – zawieszenie pracuje intensywnie, a koła utrzymują kontakt z nierównym podłożem. Obraz dynamicznie ukazuje rolę amortyzatorów w zapewnianiu stabilności i przyczepności w terenie.

Why are functioning shock absorbers crucial for safety?

Shock absorbers play a key role in damping vibrations and ensuring consistent tire grip on the road surface. They are essential for both driving comfort and overall safety. As a result, any malfunction in their performance can significantly reduce vehicle stability. It can also increase braking distances. Moreover, over time, faulty shock absorbers can contribute to the accelerated wear of other critical suspension components. Ultimately, this affects the vehicle’s long-term reliability and performance.

Wear of these components can negatively impact steering precision, particularly on uneven road surfaces and during sudden maneuvers. As a consequence, in extreme situations, it may even lead to a complete loss of vehicle control. This, in turn, poses a serious safety risk to the driver, passengers, and other road users. Therefore, it is essential to regularly inspect the condition of these parts as part of routine vehicle maintenance. Doing so helps to prevent dangerous situations and ensure optimal driving performance.

Symptoms of worn shock absorbers

One of the easiest ways to check their condition is the push test. If the car rocks more than once after pressing the fender, it indicates they may be worn. Other signs include:

  • Uneven tire wear – suspension dampers are responsible for even tire pressure on the road surface. Thus, their wear can cause improper tread wear.
  • Body roll during turns – if the car leans more than usual, it indicates that shock absorbers are not properly stabilizing the suspension.
  • Noticeable vibrations while driving – excessive vibrations, especially on uneven surfaces, may indicate wear.

How to extend the lifespan of shock absorbers?

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To ensure shock absorbers function smoothly for a long time, it is worth following a few basic operational principles:

Avoid driving on potholed and uneven surfaces whenever possible. Frequent driving on such roads accelerates suspension wear and can lead to damage to damping components.

Regularly check the technical condition of the suspension and wheel alignment. Incorrect suspension settings can lead to uneven load and faster wear of damping components. Moreover, they negatively affect driving comfort and safety.

Always replace shock absorbers in pairs on one axle because this ensures even vibration damping and vehicle stability, especially during sudden maneuvers, braking, or driving in difficult conditions.

Always use parts from reputable brands that meet OE (Original Equipment) standards. This guarantees high quality, durability, and full compatibility with your vehicle.

Check out the offer of DENCKERMANN shock absorbers.

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