Summary
Broken shock absorber spring: symptoms and diagnosis
The different causes of a broken shock absorber spring
What are the consequences of a broken shock absorber spring?
Broken shock absorber spring: maintenance and cost of repair
The shock absorber, composed of a cylinder containing oil and surrounded by a spring, is an essential element constantly solicited. Its role is to absorb shocks to ensure the comfort and safety of passengers. A broken shock absorber spring has consequences for the vehicle’s handling. Here’s how to recognize this failure and take care of it quickly.
Broken shock absorber spring: symptoms and diagnosis
Shock absorbers that have swallowed many miles are sometimes tired, even worn out. Their breakage can be fatal. It is often manifested by a rattling noise in the fenders when the vehicle is driving on a deformed road (potholes, speed bumps…).
A broken shock absorber spring can also manifest itself by:
the vehicle leaning to one side;
the front of the vehicle plunging when cornering and braking: the car tends to skid;
oil leakage from the cylinders, which indicates wear of a shock absorber and the spring of the part;
Premature tire wear.
Good to know: If any of these symptoms occur, it is essential to have a specialist investigate the anomalies to make an accurate diagnosis. If a shock absorber spring is broken, the defective shock absorber must be replaced as soon as possible.
The different causes of a broken shock absorber spring
The normal wear of shock absorbers occurs when the vehicle has been driven 80,000 km. This lifespan varies according to the type of driving. A vehicle that is constantly driven on uneven roads, goes over speed bumps too fast, or whose driver is a sports driver is more likely to break the shock absorber spring.
A simple rule of thumb is that shock absorbers that are used a lot tend to wear out much faster than those that are driven in a soft manner.
Good to know: a broken shock absorber spring can affect other mechanical components, such as the braking system.
What are the consequences of a broken shock absorber spring?
A broken shock absorber spring has an impact on the vehicle’s behavior but also on certain elements, such as the brakes, the tire axle, and the clutch, which tend to wear out quickly. A broken shock absorber spring can also be the source of accidents due to poor road adherence and defective braking.
Note that a shock absorber that loses oil leads to a considerable increase in braking distance.
Good to know: a defective shock absorber has an impact on the entire suspension of the vehicle, but also on the steering.
Broken shock absorber spring: maintenance and repair costs
To drive safely, it is important to have your shock absorbers checked every 20,000 km. This is usually done at each vehicle overhaul.
An oil leak at the cylinder level or a broken shock absorber spring should alert you. The offending part must be replaced quickly. Shock absorbers are available at car centers, dealerships, and garages.
The price of a shock absorber varies between $50 and $100 per unit, depending on the type and model of the vehicle. Note that it is important to change shocks in pairs, both front, and rear.
Good to know: the cost of labor, which varies depending on the service provider, is not included in the prices indicated. To compare, it is highly recommended to get quotes from several specialists.
Read more:
– All About the Gas Shock Absorber;
– Shock Absorber Cup: Malfunction and Cost;
– What to Do if Your Shocks Squeak;
– 4×4 Shock Absorber: Ranges, Maintenance, Prices;
Hope you’ve found the information you needed in this post. Do not forget to leave some brief remarks in the section below.