Shock Absorber Services

A shock absorber is an essential part of a vehicle’s suspension system. It is designed to absorb the shocks generated by uneven road surfaces while driving. A shock absorber works along with coil springs and suspension springs to provide a comfortable drive and ensures that the wheel and tyre keep contact with the road at all times.

Shock absorbers reduce the impact on your car by converting kinetic energy to heat. They stabilise the overall vehicle ride, preventing an excess of rolling and leaning onto one particular side when navigating sharp turns. They also prevent the vehicle’s tyre from hopping or bouncing in uneven terrain. But, like most auto parts, a shock absorber wears out over time, and you need to have it replaced to ensure the safety of your car.

Our mobile mechanics provide car repairs and car services in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Darwin, Canberra, Hobart and Adelaide around Australia for Honda and Toyota vehicles, as well as a large selection of other makes and models.

Our vans are equipped with a full range of tools and branded parts needed to perform almost any repair or replacement. Booking our on-site service will not just save you time but also prevent unnecessary travel to and from the workshop. With our mechanics working at your location, you can see what work is being done on your car.

How much to replace shock absorbers?

Are you noticing any of the following?

• The car is bouncy when you drive

• Your tyres are wearing unevenly

• There is a rough impact when you drive over bumps

If so, it’s a sign that you need to replace the shock absorbers on your 4WD or car.

The repair price depends on the type that has to be replaced — if you want air suspension or the traditional suspension springs. It also depends on if there are other components which must first be removed to allow access to do so. Generally, the cost can be between $250 to $700+.

How to change shock absorbers?

It is strongly recommended to replace any rear or front shock absorber as a pair. This is to provide an improved ride by ensuring that the car or 4WD will continue to drive predictably and in a stable way.

To change the suspension struts, it’s necessary to inspect the plates, bushes, and the bearing, and if they are worn, they will also need a replacement.

There are several steps to change shock absorbers, which includes:

• Performing a thorough inspection to determine what parts need a replacement.
• Removing the wheels and take off the old absorbers.
• Fitting the new absorbers.
• Inspecting the rear suspension, power suspension, and suspension springs for any worn or damaged parts.
• Refitting the wheels, and test if the 4WD or car is operating correctly

Lube Mobile offers fully qualified mechanics with heavy duty high-quality parts and brands. Every replacement includes a 12 months/20,000 km warranty.

What causes shock absorbers to leak?

A shock absorber is usually filled with either a gas or liquid. There is also an adjustable shock length, which has soft, normal and firm positions.

The main reason behind a leaking shock absorber is the upper seals becoming worn or damaged. This then causes hydraulic fluid to leak from the top.

There are two causes for this:

• Dirt getting inside of the shock
  This commonly happens when the strut boot is not sealed properly or it is torn.

• Damaged strut shaft
  Any damage to the polished shaft will cause rapid wear of the upper seals. A common cause is by using pliers during the installation, which can cause damage to the shaft.

If a shock absorber is leaking, then you need to get it repaired immediately. Otherwise, it can be very dangerous. Any bump can lead to the car losing balance, and going out of control. This is even worse when you drive over speed bumps, potholes, or railroad trails. Leaking or worn out shocks, besides making your ride uncomfortable, can also increase stopping distances in slippery or wet conditions, and can lead to a serious car accident.

Whether your coil & leaf springs have broken or you need more spring rate, we can help to fix all kinds of suspension problems.

If you hear a knocking noise while your car rolls over a bump, it is likely that your vehicle needs a ball joint replacement. You should also keep the sway bar in your car in good shape as it keeps your vehicle from leaning/rolling over in corners. Did you know that a MacPherson strut failure may result in the tyre pivoting at an angle and cause the driver to lose control? Or replacing a worn-out control arm aids in a smoother drive because your vehicle will no longer vibrate. If all of these seem too much to keep in mind or take care of, contact our mobile mechanics and we will try to diagnose issues even before they arise.

At Lube Mobile, the mechanic will show you an itemised quote of the work required and associated costs before commencing work on your vehicle. This will enable you to take control of the cost and help you decide if repairing a part or replacing it altogether will prove a cost-effective move in the long run.