How Shock Absorbers Are Replaced and When to Seek Professional Help

Shock absorbers play an important role in keeping your car stable, comfortable and safe to drive. Over time, they naturally wear down, which can affect handling, braking performance and overall ride quality. You might notice your car feels less stable around corners, bounces more over bumps or takes longer to stop safely. 

While some drivers research how shock absorbers are replaced, suspension systems can be complex and should be handled carefully. Understanding the replacement process, the warning signs of worn shock absorbers and when to seek professional help can help you keep your vehicle performing properly and avoid more costly repairs later on. 

 

What Do Shock Absorbers Do? 

Shock absorbers are part of your vehicle’s suspension system. Their job is to reduce the impact of uneven road surfaces and keep your tyres in contact with the road. 

When they are working properly, you get: 

• Better handling and control  

• Shorter braking distances  

• A smoother and more comfortable ride  

When they wear out, your car may bounce more, feel unstable, or take longer to stop. 

 

Signs Your Shock Absorbers Need Replacing 

Before attempting to change them, you need to be sure they need replacing. Common signs include: 

• Excessive bouncing after going over bumps  

• Nose diving when braking  

• Uneven tyre wear  

• Knocking or clunking noises  

• Fluid leaks around the shock absorber  

If you notice any of these, it is worth getting your suspension checked as soon as possible, book a service with us and we will get the issue sorted quickly.  

 

What will I need to change my shock absorbers? 

Before changing your shock absorbers, you will need the following equipment:  

• Replacement shock absorbers   

• A hydraulic jack or jack ramp   

• Torque wrench   

• New bolts   

• Axle stands   

• Sockets and a spanner 

• Spring compressor, if your vehicle uses a suspension strut assembly 

 

Step 1: Use the spring compressor  

Many vehicles with struts and shocks are integrated with springs that can pop off and injure you if not removed properly. Place the spring compressor on all four shocks and clamp them into position. Once secured you can tighten the compressor so that they’re resting against all coil springs.  

Step 2: Raise your car  

After attaching the spring compressors to your car’s shocks, you can raise it on a hydraulic jack. Ensure your vehicle is secure before accessing or loosening any part you want to access.  

Step 3: Remove the tyres and locate the worn shocks  

To access the shocks, use a socket spanner and remove each tyre from your vehicle. On most vehicles, the shocks are easy to find. Typically, a shock will have a vertical bolt attached to it, which needs loosening and knocking out to remove it.   

Step 4: Remove the worn shocks  

The next stage in changing your shock absorbers involves removing the worn shocks. Using a wrench, carefully remove the bolts holding the shocks in place. The shock may drop out once all the bolts are removed.   

Step 5: Install the replacement shocks on all four wheels  

Once all four shocks have been removed, install the replacement shocks on all four sides of your vehicle. Using a torque wrench, securely tighten all bolts on all four struts so the strut doesn’t pop out.  

Step 6: Reattach the tyres and lower your vehicle carefully  

Once you’ve installed the replacement shocks, reattach all tyres using a socket spanner and lower your car carefully off the hydraulic jack. Remove the spring compressors from the shocks. To ensure your wheels are aligned and balanced, take your vehicle for a short test drive. This will determine whether your car’s shocks and wheels are correctly aligned.   

 

Why Changing Shock Absorbers Yourself Can Be Risky 

On paper, the process may seem straightforward, but in reality, it comes with risks. Suspension systems are under high tension, and incorrect installation can affect your vehicle’s handling and safety. 

If bolts are not tightened correctly or components are misaligned, it can lead to: 

• Reduced braking performance  

• Poor steering control  

• Increased tyre wear  

• Potential failure while driving  

If you notice these symptoms, it is worth booking your vehicle in for a service with your local Merityre branch 

 

Can I change only one shock absorber?  

No, we recommend changing the shocks on your car in pairs. Since the new shock has not experienced internal wear, pairing it with an older shock puts it at a higher risk of damaging the replacement shocks.  

Knowing how to replace your shocks will ensure your vehicle continues to have a smooth and stable ride. Is your MOT due soon? Reduce the likelihood of your car failing its MOT with our guide. Book a free tyre inspection by visiting your local Merityre branch across South East England today.   

 

Keeping Your Suspension in Good Condition 

Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid sudden issues. Shock absorbers should typically be checked every 20,000 miles and replaced when signs of wear appear. 

Keeping your suspension in good condition improves comfort, safety, and overall vehicle performance, especially on uneven UK roads. 

Book a service with us