Car shocks are not given as much attention as it should have. After all, it plays a crucial role in the performance of any vehicle. Shocks are placed to ensure that the vehicle has enough amount of resistance when the tires travel through any road or when the chassis of the vehicle helps to turn it. Shocks oversee the suspension’s movement, particularly the springs’ actions. This is to keep the chassis’ and body’s steadiness even when the vehicle is going through a rough or uneven ground. It is advisable that the shocks in a car are checked at least once every year. This is for the purpose of safety and comfort when riding the car. Proper maintenance is needed, as shocks are shown to get worn out after just 25,000 to 30,000 miles. This is due to the incessant shifting and movement of the vehicle, which in turn affect the shocks.

There are a couple of signs that warn the driver of worn out shocks. An uncomfortable ride is one thing. The driver would feel the vehicle continuing to bounce even after it has already finished hitting a road bump. In relation to this, another sign is the nose-diving of the vehicle when the driver steps on the brakes. Other warning signs of bad shocks are shaky or bumpy rides and the swaying of the vehicle as it leans to make a turn. When these warnings are already present, then it is time for a good replacement. Otherwise, the other auto parts in the suspension section such as the ball joints, springs and tires could also become affected. A few examples of shocks are Bilstein shocks and Koni shocks.

sources: Motor Trend and 4×4 Review