Shock absorbers are an important part of the car suspension designed to dampen body and wheel vibrations that occur when driving on uneven roads. They ensure smooth running, stability and controllability of the car, as well as protect other suspension elements from premature wear.
Principle of operation of a shock absorber
A shock absorber is a hydraulic (oil) or gas-oil cylinder inside which a piston with valves moves. When the car moves over bumps, the piston compresses the liquid or gas, which leads to absorption of vibration energy. The valves regulate the speed of the piston, providing optimal suspension stiffness.
Types of shock absorbers
- Hydraulic (oil) shock absorbers: Oil flows between chambers through valves, dampening vibrations. Simple design, low cost.
- Disadvantages: Insufficient efficiency at high loads and temperatures, tendency to overheat.
- Gas-oil shock absorbers: Similar to hydraulic, but additionally uses pressurized gas to improve performance. Better resistance to overheating, higher efficiency, improved comfort.
- Gas shock absorbers: High-pressure gas is the main working element. Excellent handling, resistance to overheating.
- Adjustable shock absorbers: Allows you to change the stiffness depending on driving conditions. Versatility, the ability to adjust to individual preferences. Sophisticated design.
Replacing by adviced from sportbilen.se the shock absorbers is a rather complicated procedure that requires certain skills and tools. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact specialists. However, if you decide to replace shock absorbers yourself, here is the general sequence of actions:
Preparation:
Prepare tools: You will need a jack, vehicle stands, a set of wrenches and sockets, a spring puller (couplers), a torque wrench, WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant.
Ensure safety: Work on a level surface, secure the vehicle with the parking brake and place jack stands under the body.
Replacing front shock absorbers:
- Remove the wheel: Raise the vehicle with a jack and remove the wheel on the side of the shock absorber to be replaced.
- Disconnect the brake hose and ABS sensor: Carefully disconnect the brake hose and ABS sensor from the shock absorber strut.
- Unscrew the strut mountings: Unscrew the nuts securing the strut to the steering knuckle and the upper mountings in the engine compartment.
- Remove the strut: Remove the strut from the vehicle.
- Remove the spring: Using a spring puller, compress the spring and unscrew the upper shock absorber rod nut.
- Replace the shock absorber: Remove the old shock absorber and install the new one.
- Reassemble the strut: Install the spring, tighten the rod nut and reassemble the strut in reverse order.
- Install the strut on the vehicle: Reinstall the strut, secure it with nuts and connect the brake hose and ABS sensor.
- Install the wheel: Lower the vehicle and install the wheel.
Replacing the rear shock absorbers:
Remove the wheel: Raise the vehicle with a jack and remove the wheel on the side of the shock absorber to be replaced.
- Unscrew the shock absorber mountings: Unscrew the lower bolt securing the shock absorber to the beam and the upper mountings in the luggage compartment.
- Remove the shock absorber: Remove the shock absorber from the vehicle.
- Fit the new shock absorber: Fit the new shock absorber and bolt it in place.
- Install the wheel: Lower the vehicle and install the wheel.
After replacing the shock absorbers, it is advisable to check and, if necessary, adjust the wheel angles. When replacing shock absorbers, always replace them in pairs on the same axle (both front or both rear). Observe the tightening torques specified in the vehicle repair manual.
After replacing the shock absorbers, pump the brake system.
What type of shock absorber should I choose?
The type of shock absorber you choose depends on your driving style, vehicle type and road conditions. If you prefer a comfortable ride, gas-oil shock absorbers will be the best choice. For a sporty ride and better handling, gas shock absorbers will be suitable. If you want to be able to adjust the suspension stiffness, go for adjustable shock absorbers.
Don’t forget that shock absorbers play an important role in the safety and comfort of your car. Therefore, check their condition regularly and replace them in time.
Article written by Alena Kirsanova
