Modern shock absorbers, how long do they last.
Modern shock absorbers, how long do they last.
Author
Discussion

Manicminer

Original Poster:

12,659 posts

227 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
quotequote all
My 2002 Audi A4 is rapidly approaching 100k miles on original shocks and I was wondering if they really should be changed?

They pass the bounce test ok and handling seems to pretty taut still but I remember from motoring days gone by that shocks wore out gradually so you don't notice until you really need to stop quick.

Is this something not to worry about any more so long as the damper isn't leaking or should I really like be sticking on a new set?

The car has had the usual front bushes and front drop links done but nothing else suspension related..

V8RX7

28,982 posts

293 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
quotequote all
Some MOT places have shock absorber testing machines.

However at 100k they well be past their best - if it's a fun car - change them.

If it's a commuter I wouldn't worry if it drives ok.

iva cosworth

44,044 posts

193 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
quotequote all
If you take it to a dealer or Kwik Fit for servicing they will probably condemn them in seconds flat

but as said if they aren't leaking ,pass an MOT and aren't really sloppy make dosmile

sparks_E39

12,738 posts

243 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
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My 1999 150 528 was on it's originals until last October.

sparks_E39

12,738 posts

243 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
quotequote all
My 1999 150 528 was on it's originals until last October.

CampDavid

9,145 posts

228 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
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About 30k around town or 500k on the M6

aka_kerrly

12,506 posts

240 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
quotequote all
iva cosworth said:
If you take it to a dealer or Kwik Fit for servicing they will probably condemn them in seconds flat

but as said if they aren't leaking ,pass an MOT and aren't really sloppy make dosmile
tongue out A free Kwik fit quid check was going to be my suggestion.

OP> In all fairness it is more likely that the rubber bushes in the top mounts, lower arms, steering arms/rack and anti roll bar are likely to wear out before the shocks.

Higgs boson

1,105 posts

183 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
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214k miles on mine currently.
We'll see what the MoT says in June.

Manicminer

Original Poster:

12,659 posts

227 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
quotequote all
Thanks lads, will leave them for now. Might get my trusted garage to check the bushes next service in a month or so.

Caulkhead

4,938 posts

187 months

Wednesday 2nd January 2013
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They're a bit like tyres, they are past their best long before they are illegal. If the car feels sloppy, get 'em swapped. I certainly wouldn't go beyond 100k on a set as they have a dramatic effect on braking on bumpy roads.

KB_S1

5,967 posts

259 months

Thursday 3rd January 2013
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^^ My Impreza is on 131k, original dampers.
Still feels much better damped than most new cars.