Last Updated on March 7, 2021 by Atiqul Islam
Most people have heard about shock absorbers. They’re also known as shocks or dampers. But what many people don’t know is what they do and how important it is to make sure they’re intact.
You see, shock absorbers can last a long time. But exactly how long do shocks last?
To answer your question, we’ve discussed everything you need to know about this. So, without further delay, let’s start.
How Long Do Shocks Last?
Well, there’s no definitive answer to this question. A shock’s longevity depends on a lot of factors. Your vehicle type, where you drive it, and your driving habits, all of these things play a role.
However, according to most experts, an average shock should last about 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Although it doesn’t mean that you’ll have to change your shocks the minute it reaches the 50,000-100,000 mile mark.
Proper caring for your vehicle can keep away the replacement for a long time. Nonetheless, it’s better to get your suspension system checked once it reaches the 50,000-mile mark.
What Affects Your Shock’s Life?
A lot of factors can affect the longevity of your shock absorbers. So, we’ve made a list of the things you’ll want to avoid while driving.
Overloading
Your shock absorbers have a limit on how much weight it can carry. When you overload your vehicle with passengers or cargo, it can cause huge damage to your shocks.
Moreover, your shocks can even crack or bend from heavy loads. So, make sure to know your shock absorber’s maximum capacity and never exceed it.
Bumpy Roads
Bumpy roads will reduce your shock’s lifetime. You see, rough roads, potholes, and terrain will put a lot of extra pressure on your suspension system.
However, you can’t always avoid bumpy roads. So, when going over such places, make sure to drive slowly. It’ll lessen the strain on your shocks.
Weather Conditions
Even though you can avoid other things that damage your shocks, you can’t really avoid the weather, right?
A wet climate with snowfall can cause a lot of damage to your shock absorbers. The road salt will corrode your shocks in a few years.
So, if you live in such areas, make sure to get your suspension system checked every once in a while.
When Does Your Shock Need a Replacement?
If you happen to experience any problems with your shocks before the 50,000-mile mark, it means that your shocks need to be replaced. Here are a few symptoms you might experience if your shocks become damaged.
- You’ll experience a bumpy ride.
- The brakes and handling won’t work well.
- You might hear banging noises from the chassis.
- Sometimes you’ll notice that your vehicle gets bottoms out when you go over a bump.
Conclusion
So, now you know the answer to how long do shocks last. However, if you experience any kind of symptoms with your shocks, get them checked as soon as possible. Replace them if necessary.