Shock Absorbers

An integral part of the suspension system, connecting the body of the car to the road, designed with comfort, control and safety in mind. Sub-standard or worn shock absorbers can dramatically decrease the likelihood of avoiding a serious accident - when that last car length can really make the difference.

Shock absorbers support the vehicle weight and cushion road bumps and vibrations helping to maintain good tyre contact with the road surface. Shock absorbers also control vehicle roll, pitch and bounce - the rebound from the coil spring, stopping the springs bouncing the car off the road when expanding after experiencing a bump/pothole.

The shock absorbers experience huge forces, which are created through turning, accelerating, braking and the road condition, sometimes in very quick succession and in demanding environments. This means shock absorbers tire with age and use, which leads to slower response levels, uncomfortable driving/passenger experiences, reduced ride height and ultimately changes in the handling characteristics.

There are some physical signs which show a shock absorber needs replacing such as fluid leaks, external damage, bush damage, broken or worn mounts and if the piston moves in the opposite direction than intended. Awkwardly though, it isn't always obvious to the eye that a shock absorber is worn inside, making it difficult to show a customer a problem - which is where education comes into play. The hazards of using old worn out shock absorbers or changing just 1 shock absorber need to be highlighted and explained...

Worn out shock absorbers lead to:

• increased fatigue & reduced reaction times of the driver through an uncomfortable driving experience
• increased potential under/over steer
• increased braking distances
• uneven/unexpected results during avoidance manoeuvres
• increased wear on other suspension components
• increased and uneven tyre wear

Tests carried out by TUV highlighted that at 50mph stopping distances are increased by 2.6M with shock absorbers which are 50% worn. Which increases when tested on a car with ESP or ABS!

Replacing just 1 shock absorber on the axle will not solve these problems, it may in fact exaggerate them, especially the uneven/unexpected results during avoidance manoeuvres, it really is important, not only for comfort but also for safety, to change both shock absorbers on the axle.

When replacing shock absorbers, it is important to also update the top mounts to ensure correct fitment, smooth steering and a strong connection with the vehicle body. Always check with your supplier the correct application for the vehicle you are working on. To follow up it is also advisable to give the car a full alignment check.

With safety critical parts don't gamble with quality...
• Nordic shock absorbers are ISO/TS 16949 approved by TUV,
• Covered by the Nordic BER matching quality certificate
• Covered by the 3-Year / 36,000 mile warranty
• Order before 16:45* for next day delivery

Call Nordic on 01932 338600 for applications and prices

*Monday - Thursday order before 16:45 (coil springs 16:00). Fridays order before 16:00 (coil springs before 15:30).