how to tell if shocks & struts r bad?

[stroked383HSR]

what are some of the ways you can tell if your shocks and struts are bad and need replacing? I know they need replacing cause of them being factory but what are the aspects of a bad unit?

[guy7bmwm83]

I would say they are bad if they are leaking. Also, if you push down on the car and if it bounces too much, they are worn. Maybe there is a more sophisticated way of checking.

[sjsingle1]

if they are factory.......they are bad.....all there is to it

[guy7bmwm83]

What color are they factory shocks/struts? I think my car has orange ones.

[sjsingle1]

bingo....we have a winner......decarbons are orange

[stroked383HSR]

Originally Posted by sjsingle1

if they are factory.......they are bad.....all there is to it

yeah man i know that...i said im riding on my factory ****!

but what are signs of a shock/strut going bad on theses cars or any cars?

[cemlsx]

leaking , bottoming out from small bumps/impacts .. ?

[Awake455]

Originally Posted by sjsingle1

if they are factory.......they are bad.....all there is to it

That is actually a very good way to tell. They are very low quality units. It's a wonder they made it out of warranty with that junk. They may be leaking, the car may bounce over bumps, and it will ride like absolute crap compared to the same car with good shocks. I changed out a lot of parts at the same time but I was truly stunned at the dramatic difference in ride quality, handling, and :gasp: even ride comfort.

[4WOFURY]

Also, chopping on tires is a good sign, though I haven't seen that too much on these cars (my car still has stockers at 135k, no tire chop)

[stroked383HSR]

Originally Posted by 4WOFURY

Also, chopping on tires is a good sign, though I haven't seen that too much on these cars (my car still has stockers at 135k, no tire chop)

tire chop? wth is that?



what about chattering over bumps or uneven roads?

[WS9 Formula]

Originally Posted by cemlsx

leaking , bottoming out from small bumps/impacts .. ?

thats how i could tell mine where shot.

[RedHotG8]

Shocks & struts stop the springs from bouncing. If your car has a bouncy uncontrolled ride it's time for new ones.

[bayer-z28]

Jounce and Rebound test. Bounce the back end abotu 5 or 6 times, pretty hard. On a final "Push" let go when you are reaching the top. If it bounces more than two or three times AFTER you let go, your shocks are done.

If the SPRINGS are sagging, you will have inconsistent ride height measurements. -Not sitting level. Measure from the top of the wheel well to the ground on all 4 corners. Or on a sub frame spot to the ground. Springs typically don't "go bad." They'll sag before they'll break (Coil springs.) LEAF springs are a different story and are mostly used on trucks or heavier vehicles. (Sorry Vette)

[RedHotG8]

If it bounces 2-3 times the shocks or struts should be replaced. It should bounce once then stop if the shocks or struts are in good shape.

[The Mighty Texan]

Yeah thats the way to tell alright. And get that **** replaced man, just did mine not too long ago and im wondering why the hell it wasnt sooner! Ahh comfort again...

[garygnu]

dose age or mileage determine spring wear ?

[4WOFURY]

Originally Posted by stroked383HSR

tire chop? wth is that?



what about chattering over bumps or uneven roads?

Cupping is the proper term.