The components that help to keep your vehicle running effectively and efficiently are numerous. It’s one of the reasons why routine maintenance and regular tune ups are essential to ensuring that your vehicle is running to its fullest potential. One component, often overlooked until it breaks or needs repair, are the shock absorbers. Shock absorbers keep a vehicle stabile, and they also help to absorb the impacts of the vehicle’s tires on the roadway, converting the energy of the impact into another form of energy; basically, it means that the shock absorbers help to provide a smooth ride. Even on overly bumpy roadways and uneven terrain, the shock absorbers help to keep the tires in contact with the pavement.
There are a few symptoms of damaged or worn shock absorbers. One common symptom is that the tires wear unevenly and prematurely; worn tires could also be caused by improper alignment and balance, poorly maintained air levels, etc. So, if you have kept up with maintenance, then the shock absorbers are a likely culprit. A shock absorber could also be damaged; if the vehicle drops a tire into a pothole or bounces over a loose rock or unexpected bump, the impact could damage one or more shock absorbers.
Another symptom is limited control and poor mobility: the vehicle will be sluggish to stop, and could even feel loose when you steer, especially at higher speeds (A scary thought…). Shock absorbers do need to be replaced when they have worn enough to have a negative effect on driving. If you think that your shock absorbers are deteriorating, or if you are experiencing any symptoms that affect your ability to control your vehicle at any speed, then it’s a good idea to get your vehicle to your trusted mechanic at Willard’s Garage immediately.
If you have any questions, or if you are ready to schedule your next routine maintenance appointment with your mechanic at Willard’s Garage then call today.
