The %26quot;bounce test%26quot; has not been a legitimate test of shock/strut performance for at least a couple of decades, so you can ignore all answers that include a bounce test.
Leaks are not necessarily an indicator either as some struts and shocks are designed to leak a little bit to relieve pressure.
MAP (Motorist Assistance Program) guidelines recommend replacing shocks and struts after they have accumulated 50,000 miles as their performance will significantly degrade beyond that point - and not in a way you can see in a bounce test!
ASE Certified Automotive Service AdvisorHow can you tell if its time to change your shocks?
The only sure fire way that Ive found aside from visually inspecting the shock for leaking oil, is to remove the lower bolt from the suspension of the vehicle and compress the shock all the way, not to difficult, and watch the rate at which it extends. if it doesnt move or only goes about half way down, then it shot, time for a new one. Remember to at least replace them in pairs, per axle. cheap heavy duty shocks should full extend in about 10-15 seconds.How can you tell if its time to change your shocks?
Push down on the car or truck right over the front wheel until you get it to rock then let go if it stops almost as soon as you let off then they are fine if it keeps rocking after you let go then you need new ones.How can you tell if its time to change your shocks?
Alex hit it on the nosey. Get it rocking and let go on the push down. It should come back up and then settle. If the car is more than ten years old, bad shocks or struts is a given.How can you tell if its time to change your shocks?
Poor man's way... I go to each corner of the car and push down abruptly with my knee. Back off and watch the bounce. One slow bounce and things are pretty good. If they continue to bounce, there may be a need to make a change (in pairs, front or back). You can also feel resistance when you do the push down thing.How can you tell if its time to change your shocks?
The bounce test. push down on the bumper. if the car bounces, they're worn. If it comes back without bouncing, you're ok.How can you tell if its time to change your shocks?
do a bounce test on the front and rear, after you stop bouncing the car it should stop in 2- 3 bounces, if you look at the shocks and see fluid leaking out of them thats also a sign its time for them to be replaced
