How Long Do Shock Absorbers Last?

Part of owning a car is dealing with the routine maintenance and adjustments that need to be done. It's important that you pay attention and are familiar with your vehicle so you can recognize when something is wrong, as well as making sure you get it serviced regularly.

What Are Shock Absorbers?

One of the parts of any vehicle that needs to be replaced once in a while is the shock absorbers. These are basically small oil pumps that help to absorb the shock of hitting bumps and uneven roads as you are driving, so the people in the car don't get jostled. The shock absorbers control the amount of fluid in the piston to ease the abruptness of the motion when the car hits a dip or bump.

How Long Do They Last?

Most shock absorbers will last for approximately 50,000 miles, although this is an estimate and can vary by the vehicle, and even the driver. If you frequently travel rough terrain or have a habit of driving without braking when needed, your shock absorbers will not last as long. It's best not to set a specific timeframe or mileage marker to change your shock absorbers but to pay attention to the vehicle.

What Symptoms Indicate They Need To Be Changed?

Your car or truck will let you know when it is time to get new shock absorbers. The vehicle may start to dip when you apply the brakes or tilt to one side. One of the biggest indications is that the ride becomes bumpier and you start to notice oil stains where your car was parked. Also, the tires will likely start to show uneven wear, and you may even notice that the vehicle vibrates while you are driving. This sensation can become more pronounced at higher speeds. Sometimes, this can be dangerous and if you notice it, it's time to get your car checked immediately.

Replacing your shock absorbers requires specialized tools and is best left to professionals. If you need shock replacements, we invite you to bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop today!

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