Smooth Rides Ahead: The Importance of Quality Shocks for Your Vehicle
At Power Curve Automotive in Burnside, Nambour 4560, we believe in providing our customers with the highest quality automotive services and components to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely. Recently, we had a customer bring in their 2011 Holden Colorado for a routine service and diagnostic due to suspected wheel bearing noise. Upon inspection, we discovered that the noise was actually coming from a split shock absorber. In this blog, we’ll delve into what shocks are, how they work, and why it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle has good quality shocks.
What is a Shock Absorber?
A shock absorber, commonly referred to as a shock, is a vital component of your vehicle’s suspension system. Its primary function is to control the movement of the suspension springs, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers while maintaining contact between the tyres and the road surface. Shocks work by absorbing and dissipating the kinetic energy generated from bumps, potholes, and other irregularities on the road, preventing excessive bouncing and vibration of the vehicle.
How Do Shocks Work?
Shocks operate on a simple yet effective principle: hydraulic damping. Inside the shock absorber, there is a piston connected to a shaft that moves up and down as the vehicle encounters bumps and uneven surfaces. As the piston moves, hydraulic fluid is forced through small orifices, creating resistance and absorbing the kinetic energy generated by the movement of the suspension. This hydraulic resistance controls the speed at which the suspension compresses and rebounds, resulting in a smoother and more controlled ride.
why are good quality shocks important?
Safety: Quality shocks play a crucial role in maintaining traction and stability, especially during sudden maneuvers or emergency braking. By effectively controlling the movement of the suspension, shocks help keep the tyres in contact with the road surface, reducing the risk of skidding and loss of control.
Comfort: A worn or damaged shock absorber can lead to a rough and uncomfortable ride, as the vehicle will be more susceptible to bouncing and jolting over bumps and uneven terrain. Good quality shocks ensure a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
Handling and Performance: Shocks directly influence the handling and performance of your vehicle. By minimising body roll, pitch, and dive, quality shocks help improve cornering stability, steering response, and overall driving dynamics. Whether you’re navigating tight turns or cruising on the highway, properly functioning shocks enhance the vehicle’s agility and control.
Longevity of Other Components: Worn or damaged shocks can have a domino effect on other suspension components, such as springs, tyres, and steering components. Excessive bouncing and vibration can accelerate wear and tear on these parts, leading to premature failure and costly repairs. Investing in good quality shocks can help prolong the lifespan of your vehicle’s suspension system and associated components.
In conclusion, shocks are an essential component of your vehicle’s suspension system, responsible for ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable ride. By absorbing and dissipating the kinetic energy generated from bumps and uneven surfaces, shocks play a crucial role in maintaining traction, stability, and handling. Investing in good quality shocks is essential to enhance safety, comfort, and performance while prolonging the lifespan of your vehicle’s suspension system. At Power Curve Automotive, we’re committed to providing our customers with top-quality shocks and expert installation services to keep their vehicles performing at their best.