Rear Shock Absorber Maintenance

Visually inspect the rear shock absorbers for any signs of damage, leaks, or wear. Check for dents, corrosion, and worn mounts or bushings.

Perform a bounce test by applying downward pressure on the rear of the vehicle and observe how the shock absorbers handle the bounce. The vehicle should resist multiple bounces and return to its original position quickly if the shocks are working properly.

Clean the shock absorber with a suitable cleaner to remove any dirt, grime, or debris that could hide potential issues and affect performance.

Closely inspect the bushings for signs of excessive wear or cracking. Replace if necessary.

Ensure that all mounting hardware and fasteners are tight and secure to prevent any movement or noise during operation.

If the shock absorbers have adjustable damping, consult the manufacturer's guidelines and adjust accordingly to suit the vehicle's load and driving conditions.

If any serious issues are found during the inspection, or if the shocks fail the bounce test and adjustments don't resolve the issue, replace the shock absorbers with new ones that match the specifications for the vehicle.

Regular maintenance checks should be scheduled according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or at least once a year.

When performing any maintenance on the vehicle's suspension system, ensure the vehicle is properly supported and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Use jack stands for safety.

When disposing of old shock absorbers, follow local environmental guidelines to prevent contamination.