If you are like most truck owners, you love your vehicle. It is more than just a way of getting around, it represents a little of who you are. So, you like to take good care of it. Of course, it can be difficult to know when certain components need replacing. Is it time to replace the shocks? Should you upgrade to new Bilstein shock absorbers? Below is some guidance on knowing when to replace shocks.

What Are Shock Absorbers?

Shock absorbers are the suspension component that dampens the vertical moment of your truck’s wheels. Without shocks, your truck would bounce up and down for a while after going over a bump. The shocks help to quickly dissipate that energy faster than the suspension springs would be able to.

Most shocks accomplish this using a hydraulic fluid that passes through a series of valves and channels. This created friction which converts the kinetic energy from the wheel movement into heat energy. This slows the movement of the suspension strut that surrounds the shock and prevents unwanted bouncing.

When Do Shocks Need Replacing?

Unlike some other truck components, shocks primarily wear on the inside. So, they may be worn down even without any external signs.

The most obvious sign is how the vehicle moves when you are driving. If it pitches when you are accelerating, braking or turning, that is a sign that the shocks need to be replaced. For example, if you hit the brakes and the vehicle noticeably dips forward, you likely need new front shocks. This can become dangerous as your control over the vehicle decreases when its shocks wear out.

You may also notice a more jarring ride as the shocks wear. This is the result of them not compressing as smoothly and consistently due to excess use.

Inspect your shocks by pressing down on then rapidly releasing a corner of the vehicle while parked. For larger trucks, this may require the help of a friend. If the truck bounces, the shocks are worn out.

If you notice some symptoms of shock wear, perform a visual inspection. You may see fluid leaking from the shock. Some misting is not uncommon, but streaks of fluid on the outside indicate a serious leak. The absence of leaking fluid does not mean that the shock does not need to be replaced, but its presence means that it does need to be.
Most shocks are rated for at least 50,000 miles before they need to be replaced. In reality, most can get closer to 100,000 miles. However, keeping up with the vehicle’s maintenance schedule is usually worthwhile; especially if you like off-roading or other types of driving that are hard on shocks.

Get Some New Shocks

If you think your shocks are worn down, replace them sooner rather than later. You can easily find shock absorbers and other truck parts online. It is worth it to keep your ride safe and comfortable. Plus, when you replace them, you can upgrade to higher-quality shocks. Try swapping your OEM shocks for some aftermarket alternatives and get more from your vehicle.

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

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