Before we delve into the details of what shock absorbers do and how long they last, let's begin by answering a simple question. What are shock absorbers? Well, they are a crucial part of the vehicle's suspension designed to absorb the compression and rebound of the springs and suspension. They are an oil-filled cylinder.
What Do Shock Absorbers Do What Do Shock Absorbers Do?
Shock absorbers control unwanted or excess spring motion. They keep your car tires in contact with the road at all given times. When a vehicle hits a bump or a dip in the road its suspension and springs move so that the car tires remain in contact with the road and absorb the energy. Shock absorbers dampen the movement of the springs and convert the kinetic energy into thermal energy.
Types of Shock Absorbers
There are three different types of shock absorbers and they differ for the different types of vehicles they are found on.
Conventional telescopic shock absorbers - these are the simplest types of the 3 and this shock absorber is usually replaced and not repaired. Conventional telescopic shock absorbers can be found on both the front and rear suspension systems. They are inexpensive.
Strut-type shock absorbers - are more ruggedly built in order to cope with Greta loads. In small to medium cars strut-type shock absorbers are located on the front and rear however larger cars now have stretch base suspension designs.
Spring seat shocks - this type of shock portrays characteristics of both of the conventional telescopic and strut type shock absorbers. However they are not designed to cope with high side loads.
How Long do Shock Absorbers Last?
Shock absorbers last anywhere between 4 to 5 years however,this depends on the road conditions. If the vehicle is driven prevalently on smooth roads then the life-span can extend to 10 years. Likewise, the life-span lower below 5 years if the vehicle is prevalently driven on bumpy roads.
When Should Shock Absorbers be Replaced?
When the following starts happening then its probably time to take a look at your shock absorbers and have them replaced.
- It take your vehicle a longer time to stop completely.
- You vehicle dives when you step on the breaks.
- Tires are unevenly worn.
It is not advised to try and tackle shock absorber replacements on your own. So, if you need shock absorber replacement, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Pete's Auto Service today!