ZF Aftermarket recommends shock absorber checks

ZF in Oceania is providing tips for safer and smoother driving, with ZF Aftermarket experts recommending shock absorbers be thoroughly examined every 20,000 kilometres and replaced after 80,000 kilometres.

A correctly functioning shock absorber will control the car’s handling, keep the tyres in contact with the road, and provide a comfortable, noise-free ride.

Visual signs of a defective shock absorber include uneven tyre wear, for example, if the tyres are unevenly worn on one axle, or a sawtooth formation appears on the tread.

A defective or worn, shock absorber can impair vehicle traction and stability on uneven roads or in curves. It can also create aquaplaning, even at lower speeds. Consequently, safety systems, such as ABS and slip and stability control, may not be fully functional.

The braking distance can also be longer, which means that the tyres are no longer as responsive as they should be.

Another indicator is excessive wheel vibration, which could potentially lead to loss of control of the vehicle.

If unsafe handling behaviours, noises or tyre issues are reported, ZF Aftermarket recommends workshops inspect and/or replace the ride control components, when replacing shock absorbers and struts.

It is also crucial that shock absorbers are replaced in pairs, that way customers can be assured that all of the vehicle’s shocks are brand new, for optimum performance and the safest possible handling.

As a result of extended lockdowns across Australia in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, vehicles were driven less frequently, with many workshops reporting a downturn in regular servicing. According to ZF Aftermarket, driving less means the effects of worn shock absorbers could go unnoticed.

For this reason, ZF Aftermarket recommends workshops should always include a damper test in vehicle checks, ideally with a professional shock absorber tester.

ZF Aftermarket says its brand, SACHS, produces shock absorbers that are distinguished by their original equipment quality and innovative technology, and are now ranked the number one shock absorber in European car parc coverage.

“With the ideal combination of performance and dynamics, SACHS shock absorbers ensure perfect road grip and cornering behaviour, no matter what challenges the road may present,” the company said.

According to ZF Aftermarket, the SACHS range has more than 3,000 shock absorber references, with a combination of mono-tube and twin-tube gas pressurised shock technology throughout the entire range.

SACHS product expert, Craig Lowndes, has filmed a safety video about shock absorbers, which can be viewed below.