What is the average lifespan of a shock absorber?
A car shock absorber can last between 70,000 and 150,000 kilometers. Lifespan depends on parameters such as vehicle, driving style and type of roads used. Dynamic driving in an urban environment with lots of speed bumps or in rural areas with rough roads puts your shock absorbers to the test. Conversely, driving almost exclusively on the highway, on a uniform surface and at constant speed, preserves the shock absorbers. Finally, note that climatic conditions also have an impact on the longevity of this component. Prolonged exposure to humidity or road salt accelerates degradation.
What are the signs of a tired shock absorber?
Several signs indicate pronounced wear of a shock absorber. We can cite the loss of comfort in turns or the lengthening of braking distances. Traces of oil leaks at the shock absorbers also invite you to make an appointment with the mechanic like those of the AD network. In all cases, the shock absorbers are one of the points of vigilance during the technical inspection and advanced wear results in a second inspection.
Should you change all the shock absorbers at the same time?
Due to the presence of the engine, and therefore additional weight, the front shock absorbers age faster than those located at the rear. It is therefore not necessary to replace all the shock absorbers at the same time. On the other hand, changing a single shock absorber can cause an imbalance. This is why shock absorbers are always changed in pairs.
How much does a shock absorber replacement cost?
The price varies depending on the garage, the brand of shock absorbers and the type of vehicle. It costs a few hundred euros on average per axle, labor included. The shock absorbers of a small city car are, for example, less expensive than those of an SUV or 4×4. There are also different suppliers of auto parts, depending on your budget. To get an idea, the easiest way is to ask your mechanic for a quote.
What are the risks with shock absorbers in poor condition?
The failure of one or more shock absorbers has repercussions on comfort, due to less absorption of road irregularities and greater jolts for passengers. This has an impact on your safety with poor handling when cornering, increasing the risk of skidding on wet roads or at high speed. It can extend braking distances, due to momentary losses of contact between the wheel and the road which reduces grip. Finally, note that a broken shock absorber spring can rub against the tire and ultimately cause a puncture.
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