How to choose and when to change shock absorbers: A tip for UK carriers
You're probably spending more time on the road than at home if you're a UK carrier. And although you keep your truck in tip-top shape, one component that doesn't receive a lot of attention until the ride becomes bouncy is your shock absorbers. They are the unseen heroes that labour to keep your ride comfortable, your tires on the road, and your truck acting like it's supposed to.
Ignore them, and you might be in for a world of issues such as longer stopping distances, dicey handling, and a ride that shakes you to the bone.
Why shock absorbers are more important than you realize
Shock absorbers are not all about comfort; they are a safety essential for your truck. You can find more details about shock absorbers on the website autodoc.co.uk, to educate yourself about the importance of shock absorbers. Once they begin to wear out, not only does your truck not ride as smoothly, but it is also actually more difficult to control.
Picture cornering and feeling like your lorry is rolling excessively or that it is taking a longer time to brake. That is not only frustrating - but that is also risky. Tests have shown that worn-out shock absorbers can add meters to your stopping distance, which can be the difference between stopping safely or a potential accident.
And do not even get me started on how they will work with newer safety features like ABS and ESC, with faulty shocks, those higher-end systems will not be able to function as effectively. Bad shocks also ruin control during crosswinds and lead to driver fatigue because you're constantly fighting with the wheel. And if you're used to driving under heavy loads, worn shocks can worsen weight distribution, leading to instability that can be fatal during an emergency manoeuvre and potholes.
How to know when your shocks need replacement
Unlike a blown tire or a busted light, shock absorbers don't fail overnight.
Instead, they deteriorate gradually, so it's easy to tune out the warning signs until things are awful. But if you're experiencing excessive bouncing after hitting a bump, mushy steering response, or your tires are wearing unevenly, it's time to get your shocks checked. Leaking fluid around the shock absorbers is another dead giveaway; they're not supposed to be leaking oil.
Another symptom you might overlook is a vibration in the steering wheel. If you're noticing every little crack and bump in the road, your shocks simply aren't doing their job. And don't overlook nose-diving: If your truck nosedives forward significantly when you brake, those shocks are practically begging to be replaced.
Mileage also comes into play. AUTODOC Council of Experts: "Shock absorber and strut life can vary considerably depending on driving habits and road conditions. A typical range is between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.
It's important to note that wear and tear on shocks and struts is a gradual process, not a sudden failure. You might not experience a complete breakdown, but rather a decline in handling, ride quality, and overall vehicle performance over time." Picking the right shock absorbers for your truck
When it comes time to replace your shocks, don't just grab the cheapest ones available; invest in quality. Some of the best brands in the business include Monroe, which makes their heavy-duty Monroe Magnum shocks designed to handle serious mileage, and NAPA Truck, which offers high-quality, durable options for commercial vehicles. It's also wise to consider newer shock technologies.
Gas-charged shocks, for example, offer better performance by reducing foaming inside the unit, which can help stability when your truck is carrying heavy loads. Adjustable shocks are another great option, as they allow you to modify the suspension depending on whether your truck is loaded or empty. Heavy-duty twin-tube or monotube shocks can offer additional durability and extreme temperature tolerance if you're operating in especially harsh conditions.
Caring for your suspension system
Want to wring more life from your shock absorbers?
Start by taking care of your truck's suspension system in general. Check-ups are crucial: Have your shocks, springs, and other suspension components inspected by a pro at every service. Proper tire inflation also reduces the stress, and not overloading your truck will save your shocks from wear and tear.
Your driving habits also make a difference. If you're constantly ploughing through potholes at full speed, don't be surprised when your suspension gives up on you. Taking it easy on rough roads and making smooth, controlled stops can help preserve your shocks for longer.
One often overlooked maintenance recommendation is washing. Shock absorbers get pounded by dirt, grime, and road salt that can induce early corrosion. A good wash-off during truck washing can go a long way in making them last longer.
And keep an eye on bushings and mounts: Worn bushings introduce unwanted motion that reduces shock efficiency and induces other wear. And if you do start to notice any issues, don't wait: Addressing little problems now can save you big and expensive repairs down the line. A good rule of thumb?
Have your shocks inspected every 20,000 miles, even if you're not noticing any blatant problems. Preventative maintenance always costs less than a full suspension rebuild.
The bottom line
Shock absorbers aren't the most glamorous part of your truck, but they're an important one when it comes to performance and safety. Paying attention to the warning signs of wear and investing in quality replacements can make a huge difference in handling, braking, and ride quality.
Good maintenance will also get you the most life out of your shocks, keeping your truck in prime condition for miles to come.