When to change shock absorbers???
- The Little Car Advisor
- Oct 1, 2019
- 3 min read
Many of us know about shock absorbers in our vehicles, but few know the significance of the absorbers , and how important it is to have it constantly checked and replaced.

Like almost any vehicle components, shock absorbers may be worn out at a certain period of time.
What is the lifespan of my Absorbers?
The average lifespan of shock absorbers is typically around 3-4years. However, with difficult terrains, such as potholes, uneven roads, hump, these lifespan of the absorbers can be significantly reduced, hence requiring earlier replacement than expected.
So, what is an shock absorber?
To simply say, the shock absorber in a vehicle, helps to control unwanted movement in the car. This is done by controlling the movement of the wheels.

Hence, simply put, the shock absorbers help your vehicle tyres neatly and kept evenly on the roads.
Do I need a shock absorber replacement?
As shock absorbers wear they become less effective. For example, the damping becomes less and less. As the effectiveness of shocks degrades it's not always easy for the average motorist to realise this.
Oil Leakages
You can inspect them within the wheel arches for signs of leakage. Oil stains are a clear sign, you should replace the mountings ASAP.
Uneven Tyre Wears
Uneven wear on tyres may be another tell tail sign that your vehicles absorbers need replacement. Constantly check your tyres for visual examination for abnormalities.
Noises Over Bumpy Roads and Humps
Taking note of unusual sounds and issues can also be another symptoms of failing absorbers.

The noise such as squeakings, or thumping due to the tyre hitting against your other components may be a symptoms of failing absorbers. Other noises including knocking sounds, which indicates a need to replace suspension bushes
Poor Cornering, Lousy Braking ETC
The above list is non-exhaustive, and you may also have other symptoms such as difficult turning, uncomfortable and bumpy rides etc, are all symptoms of failing shock absorbers.
Hence, to prevent these components from failure, preventive care is require whereby you change out of your shock absorbers on regular timeframes.
When should I change my shock absorbers?
As mentioned earlier, all automotive parts have a lifespan, and in order to have a smooth and pleasant ride, its always good to change your automotive parts frequently at a certain timeframe.
For shock absorbers, generally it should be replaced approximately 30- 40,000 miles . Or best, it should be replaced approximately between a time frame of 3-4years.
* For shock absorbers, as time passes, and frequent usage of vehicle, the gas pressure in the absorber may diminish, hence losing its effectiveness. As such, regular change and check is vital.

*** DO NOTE THAT CHANGING YOUR SHOCK ABSORBERS DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN REQUIRING TO CHANGE YOUR SPRINGS, MOUNTINGS, STOPPER***
Cost of Shock Absorbers
The avg cost of an pair of absorbers is approximately between $200-$250 (Depending on models).
As of October 2019, the recommended models that can consider changing the absorbers are Kia K3 (Models 2012-2014) and Hyundai Elantra MD (Models 2011-2014)
Conclusion
Checking and replacing your vehicles shock absorbers are fundamentals to having a smooth and pleasant ride for you and your family.
At Drivewise Autoparts, we advocate preventive maintainence, and we always recommend our customers to change out faulty parts as it will have detrimental effects on the vehicle and the passengers of the vehicle.
Need Kia, Hyundai, Toyota, Mazda parts? Look for Drivewise Autoparts, the only automotive platform providing you on-demand autoparts, delivered to your doorstep.
+6582635051/ stanns@singnet.com.sg
Dont wait till they give you trouble before changing them!!!

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