Shock absorber check

The following symptoms indicate a damper failure:

• prolonged body vibrations when driving on rough roads;
• strong rocking of the body on irregularities following one after another;
• a sharp rise in the front of the car during acceleration;
• "bouncing" wheels (even on flat roads);
• strong lowering of the front of the car when braking (there may be other reasons);
• knocking while driving (there may be other reasons).

Examination

The approximate condition of the shock absorber can be determined manually. However, an accurate check is possible only on a special stand.

Remove shock absorber.

Holding the shock absorber vertically, stretch and compress it. In the entire range of motion, the rod must move evenly, without jerks.

During normal operation, small traces of oil are not a reason to replace the shock absorber.

If there is a large loss of oil, the shock absorber should be replaced.