What does a shock absorber do?
A shock absorber is a critical part of a vehicle’s suspension system that helps to manage the movement and energy created by traveling over uneven surfaces.
The primary functions of a shock absorber are:
- Smooth-out bumps: As a vehicle travels, it encounters various imperfections in the road surface, such as bumps, potholes, and other irregularities. These cause the vehicle’s wheels to move up and down. The shock absorbers convert the wheel’s kinetic energy into heat, which then dissipates into the atmosphere.
- Control vehicle movement: Shock absorbers control the amount of bouncing, swaying, braking diving, and acceleration squats in a vehicle. This contributes to maintaining comfort inside the vehicle and allows the driver to keep control.
- Maintain contact with the road surface: By damping the motion of the vehicle’s springs, shock absorbers ensure that the vehicle’s tires maintain good contact with the road at all times, increasing safety and improving vehicle handling.
The shock absorber works by using hydraulic fluid (oil) forced through small internal passages in a tube. As the vehicle hits a bump or pothole, the shock compresses and extends, forcing hydraulic fluid through these passages. The resistance to fluid flow is what absorbs and dissipates the kinetic energy.
Without shock absorbers, the vehicle would have a very bouncy ride, and the tires would not maintain constant contact with the road, reducing the effectiveness of the brakes and leading to an overall loss of control and comfort.
What Materials Make Up Shock Absorbers?
Shock absorbers consist of several components, each made from different materials for their unique properties.Here’s a basic breakdown of the main components and their typical materials:
- Outer Tube/Casing: This is typically made from high-grade steel due to its strength and durability. The tube has to withstand the pressures of the hydraulic fluid or gas inside, as well as protect the inner components from external damage.
- Piston: The piston moves up and down within the cylinder and is typically made from lightweight materials like aluminum, steel, or strong alloys. The piston has small holes or valves through which the hydraulic fluid or gas flows.
- Piston Rod: Attached to the piston, this rod extends from the shock absorber. Made of hard-chromed stainless steel or similar material, it resists wear and corrosion.
- Seals: Seals prevent hydraulic fluid or gas leakage. Made of durable, flexible materials like rubber or synthetic compounds, they withstand constant movement and pressure.
- Hydraulic Fluid/Gas: The shock absorber contains hydraulic fluid (usually oil) or gas, which passes through small holes in the piston to provide resistance that absorbs shocks.
- Mounts: Mounts or brackets attach the shock absorber to the vehicle and are typically made from steel or other durable materials. They often have rubber or polyurethane bushings to reduce noise and vibration.
- Spring (in the case of Struts): Some shock absorbers, known as struts, incorporate a spring around the outside of the cylinder. This spring is typically made from a high-strength steel alloy, as it must withstand significant pressure and tension.
The specific type and intended use of a shock absorber determine the materials used, but these are the most common ones.
How long do shock absorbers last?
The lifespan of a shock absorber depends on its quality, the vehicle type, driving conditions, and maintenance.
Inspect shock absorbers after 50,000 miles for potential replacement. They may last up to 100,000 miles in optimal conditions or need replacing as early as 30,000 miles on rough roads.
What happens when your car’s shock absorber is bad?
When a car’s shock absorbers start to fail, it can lead to a range of problems, many of which can impact the safety, comfort, and performance of the vehicle. Here are some of the issues that can arise:
- Reduced Handling and Control: Shock absorbers help to ensure that your tires are always in contact with the road, which is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle. When shock absorbers are bad, the vehicle can lose traction, especially during turns, braking, or driving over uneven surfaces.
- Increased Stopping Distance: Bad shocks can increase the stopping distance of a vehicle, especially when braking hard. This can pose a serious safety risk, especially in emergencies.
- Ride Comfort: Worn-out shock absorbers can make the ride bumpy and uncomfortable as they no longer effectively absorb the impact of uneven surfaces.
- Damage to Other Components: Malfunctioning shock absorbers force other vehicle parts to absorb more impact and vibration than designed. This can lead to increased wear and tear on components such as tires, brakes, and suspension parts, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Increased Tire Wear: Without the stabilizing effect of good shock absorbers, tires can bounce and create uneven or excessive tread wear. This will reduce the lifespan of the tires and could potentially impact safety, particularly in wet conditions.
- Noise and Vibrations: Worn shock absorbers can cause unusual noises, such as clunking, rattling, or squeaking when driving over bumps or potholes.
If you notice any signs of failing shock absorbers, check and replace them as soon as possible if needed. Driving with bad shock absorbers can be uncomfortable, damaging to your car, and, most importantly, unsafe.
Who Manufactures The Best Shock Absorber in China?
Among shock absorber manufacturers, one name stands out for superior quality and innovation in shock absorber brands – GDST.
With a strong commitment to research and development, GDST continuously advances its technologies and manufacturing processes to create products that set industry standards. Each GDST shock absorber undergoes meticulous testing to ensure optimal performance and longevity, assuring drivers who prioritize safety and comfort in their driving experience.
Choosing GDST shock absorbers means investing in cutting-edge suspension technology, high-quality materials, and a brand trusted for its consistency and excellence in the field.
