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Feb 4, 2012

Right Time To Replace You Car's Shocks

Each and every component of your car has a limited service life because wear and tear will eventually take its toll over time. This is especially true for your car's shocks. If you're someone who loves doing auto repair on his own, you need to know the best time to replace the shocks on your car. This is important if you want to maintain or improve the degree of riding control and comfort that your car can offer. Doing timely maintenance and replacement of car parts helps a lot in avoiding any car crisis from developing.
By knowing the best time to replace your car's shocks is a good way to improve your auto repair skills. When your shocks and struts get worn out, it's hard to ignore the problem because you can literally feel its effects especially when you drive over a pothole or a bumpy road. One of the first signs that indicate excessive wear and tear show up when you hit the brakes. When the shock absorber mechanism isn't working, the front of the car dives down when you step on the brakes and when your car accelerates, you will feel the rear end of the car squatting. Your ride becomes very bumpy and the entire car frame will bounce or oscillate up and down after you hit a pothole. When you turn, the car may sway excessively.
If you find leaks on the absorber housing; damaged piston rods; and worn out tires, it's really advisable that you replace both of your shocks and struts. When you see any of the signs that I've stated above, you'll know that it's already time for you to get new sets by visiting an auto repair shop.
Car manuals usually provide information about the best time to get your shock absorbers replaced. In general, the recommended mileage range after which it's advised to get a replacement is 50,000 to 60,000 miles. When you notice the signs that have been discussed above, you should go for a replacement as soon as possible. You can refer to your car's manual for details about the ideal replacement period.
The best way for you to determine whether or not you already need to go for a replacement is by doing an actual inspection. If you spot any sign of wear and tear, you should get replacements as soon as you can unless you love getting roller coaster rides whenever you're driving your car. Getting a replacement won't only give you a better ride but this will also ensure that your tires and drive assembly won't get significantly affected.