How Long Do Shock Absorbers Last

Date June 8, 2021
Category
Car Maintenance
KYB Shock Absorbers

There are many different types of suspension systems out there, but the most common by far is a combination of shock absorbers and struts. On older cars, shock absorbers are used on both the front and rear wheels, but modern cars use them primarily on the rear wheels, with strut assemblies on the front.
 
Both shocks and struts work in a similar way. They use either compressed gas or liquid to help absorb the lateral (up and down) movement of your car caused by bumps, dips, speed bumps, potholes and more.
You should have your shocks and struts inspected at each oil change.

SHOCKS VS STRUTS
Struts vs Shocks

In general, a shock absorber should last at least 70,000km before you need to have it replaced. However, the real determining factor is where you drive and how you drive. For instance, if you do a lot of off-road driving, or spend a lot of time on dirt roads, your shocks will wear out much more quickly. If you do primarily highway or interstate driving where the roads are smooth and level, they may last well beyond the 70,000-km mark.
 
Once your shocks begin to wear, they’ll fail quickly. What happens is that the end seals begin to wear. Eventually, they will fail. The gas or liquid inside the shock absorber will then leak out. In a liquid-based shock, this can be seen as moisture on the top of the shock absorber or running down the side of the assembly.

The signs that indicate you have a failing or failed shock include:

  • Knocking or bumping from the rear suspension
  • The vehicle does not sit level
  • Feeling that the rear end is “loose” while going around turns
  • The rear end bounces more than it should
  • Jarring ride over rougher roads
  • Even small bumps are very noticeable

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