Description: Shock absorbers, or
“shocks,” are usually used on cars and light trucks with standard
suspension systems. Shocks may also be used on the rear of some cars
front-wheel-drive cars that use McPherson strut suspension in front.
Shocks provide resistance by forcing hydraulic fluid (oil) through
valves in the piston as it moves up and down. Because the oil cannot
be compressed, only a certain amount of fluid can be forced through
these valves, which creates resistance to vehicle movement. Premium
shocks are superior to regular hydraulic shocks because air in the
shock is replaced by pressurized nitrogen gas. This prevents bubbles from
forming in the hydraulic fluid. These bubbles, called foaming,
reduce the ability of shocks to provide resistance and prevent bounce.
Gas shocks also quicken the response of a shock's
movement, thereby increasing comfort and control.
Purpose:
Shock absorbers dampen movement of the vehicle’s
springs as they compress and rebound during vehicle travel. Without shocks, a
vehicle would continually bounce, making control difficult. Shock absorbers have a strong
influence on vehicle control and handling and hold the tires to
the road.
Maintenance Tips/Suggestions:
Your vehicle’s shocks should be checked once a year, usually in conjunction
with a wheel alignment. Under normal conditions, shocks wear out gradually
and you may not notice incremental losses in ride quality, handling
and control. Some signs that your vehicle may have worn shocks include
excessive bouncing, rocking back and
forth, drifting
or nose-diving while
braking, swaying,
or cupping wear on the tires. For
a complete check of your vehicle’s suspension system, have it thoroughly
inspected by a qualified service technician. If an inspection reveals the
need for new shocks, consider premium shocks made especially for your
driving habits. If you’re a pick-up or
SUV owner, upgrading your shocks can bring a big improvement
in overall ride quality and handling.
