When you should replace your shock absorbers

When Struts and Shock Absorbers should be replaced:

Shock absorbers and struts are parts of the vehicle suspension. They soak up shocks from road bumps and potholes and keep your vehicle riding smooth and stable. They also absorb the energy of the springs and keep the vehicle from bouncing excessively.

What is the difference between a shock absorber and a strut?

A Strut is a shock absorber built into one unit with a coil spring and a strut mount. It’s also known as the MacPherson strut. All vehicles have four struts/shock absorbers; one at each wheel. Most cars and SUVs have struts in the front suspension and shock absorbers or struts in the back. Struts and shock absorbers don’t need any maintenance.

Does this mean that they never have to be replaced? No, struts and shock absorbers do fail, especially if the roads are bad. Replacement of struts and shock absorbers is one of the most common repairs. Another reason to replace old struts and shock absorbers is to upgrade the ride quality.

Shock Absorber Structure:

A shock absorber is a telescopic cylinder, and normally has a double action, which generates damping force on both the compression and extension strokes. Within the tubular type of shock absorber, there are two types, “Single Cylinder Type” and “Double Cylinder Type”. They are used depending on the type of vehicle. The Damping Force is the resistance force that the shock absorber uses to suppress the movement of the spring.

Single Cylinder Type:

This is a type that is used in sports cars. Since the single cylinder type reacts in proportion to the movement of the piston, the structure is simple, easy to tune, and heat dissipation is good.

Double Cylinder Type:

It is a type widely used in many car models including general passenger cars. It has a high degree of freedom in the length of the suspension and it is suitable for rough and uneven roads. The interior of the main body has a double structure, with the piston valve and base valve separately producing a damping force with the extension and compression of the shock absorber.