A shock or strut controls movement
when a car is driven into a corner or over bumps. These units are comprised of shock
oil, dampening valves, a piston, main seal, main body with mounting bushing and
an activation shaft with mounting bushing. When shocks or struts fail it is typical
in one of two ways, either the internal dampening valve fails or the main shaft
seal fails allowing the shock oil to leak out. A shock absorber is mounted to a
suspension component at one end and the frame of the car on the other. Many suspension
components are in action while the car is driving included the shocks and struts
such as the ball joints, lower control
arm, bushings, sway bar links and more. If a rattling or bumping sounds is present
while driving isolate the noise from front to rear, this will help in the diagnoses.
If the location of the noise is difficult to detect have a helper ride along in
the rear seat of the car and compare opinions.
Car Shock Cutaway
Troubleshooting Procedure
Checking Front or Rear Strut Failure - Struts are created with
hydraulic dampening valves that can fail causing a
clicking or
popping noise. If strut oil is leaking the
shaft seal has failed and will cause a rattle
or clicking noise. To test for this condition
disassemble strut assembly and check for excessive strut movement, if strut is easily
moved (low resistance) replacement is needed. A spring compressor is required for
disassembly.
Front Strut Leakage
Checking Front or Rear Shock Failure - Shocks are created with
hydraulic dampening valves much like struts. To test for this condition inspect
shock assembly and check for leakage, if shock is easily moved (low resistance)
replacement is needed.
Rear Shock Leaking
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