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 reduce this motion by converting the kinetic energy of the wheel movement into thermal energy (heat), which can then be dissipated 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 shock compresses and extends (when the vehicle hits a bump or pothole), the hydraulic fluid is forced 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 are shock absorbers made of?
Shock absorbers are typically made up of several components, each manufactured 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, which moves up and down within the cylinder, is often made from aluminum, steel, or alloys of similar strength and lightweight. The piston has small holes or valves through which the hydraulic fluid or gas flows.
- Piston Rod: This rod is attached to the piston and extends out of the shock absorber. It’s usually made of hard-chromed stainless steel or similar material because it has to resist wear and corrosion over a long period of time.
- Seals: Seals are used to prevent the leakage of hydraulic fluid or gas. These are typically made from durable and flexible materials like rubber or synthetic compounds that can withstand constant movement and pressure without failing.
- Hydraulic Fluid/Gas: The shock absorber contains hydraulic fluid (typically oil) or gas, which is forced through the small holes in the piston, providing the resistance that absorbs shocks.
- Mounts: The mounts or mounting brackets, which are used to attach the shock absorber to the vehicle, are generally made from steel or another strong, durable material. 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 materials used can vary depending on the specific type of shock absorber and its intended use, but these are the most common materials found in a typical shock absorber.
How long do shock absorbers last?
The lifespan of shock absorbers can vary widely depending on several factors, including the quality of the shock absorbers themselves, the type of vehicle they’re installed on, the conditions in which the vehicle is driven, and how well the vehicle is maintained.
Generally, though, it’s commonly suggested that shock absorbers should be inspected after around 50,000 miles for a potential replacement. Some may last up to 100,000 miles under optimal conditions, while others may need to be replaced as early as 30,000 miles if the vehicle is regularly driven on rough or unpaved roads.
What happens when your car 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 emergency situations.
- 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: When shock absorbers are not functioning properly, other parts of the vehicle have to absorb more impact and vibration than they are designed for. 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 that your shock absorbers may be failing, it’s important to get them checked and replaced if necessary as soon as possible. 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, providing assurance to 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.
