Shock Absorber Replacement

There are different types of shock absorbers, each designed for specific driving conditions, vehicle types and use cases. Choosing the right option depends on how and where your vehicle is used.

Common types include:

• Standard shock absorbers: designed for everyday driving in passenger cars, offering a balanced mix of comfort and stability
• Gas shock absorbers: provide firmer damping and better control, ideal for modern cars, motorway driving and improved handling
• Heavy-duty shock absorbers: built for carrying higher loads and increased stress, well suited for vans, SUVs and campers
• Comfort-oriented shock absorbers: focus on smoother ride quality, often preferred for city driving and long journeys
• Performance shock absorbers: deliver sharper handling and reduced body roll, typically used in sports vehicles

The right choice also depends on the vehicle:

• Passenger cars (PCW): usually use standard or gas shock absorbers for comfort and safety
• Campers and motorhomes: often require reinforced or heavy-duty shock absorbers to handle weight, load changes and higher centre of gravity

Because every vehicle and driving style is different, it’s best to get individual advice. A Bosch Car Service workshop near you can inspect your suspension, explain the problem, available shock absorbers and recommend the most suitable option for your car, van or camper.

You don’t need technical knowledge to spot possible issues. Worn shock absorbers often show clear warning signs during everyday driving. If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, it’s worth having them checked:

• Excessive bouncing: the car continues to bounce after bumps or speed humps
• Poor stability: the vehicle feels unsettled in corners or less controlled at higher speeds
• Longer braking distances: the car needs more time or space to stop safely
• Unusual noises: knocking or clunking sounds from the suspension area
• Vibrations: steering wheel or body vibrations on uneven roads
• Uneven tyre wear: tyres wearing faster or unevenly due to reduced road contact
• Visible oil leaks: leaking shock absorbers are a clear sign of wear

These symptoms can indicate that a shock absorber replacement may be needed — but they don’t automatically mean parts must be changed.

The safest approach is a professional check. At your local Bosch Car Service, trained technicians carry out a shock absorber inspection and assess your complete suspension system. You’ll get clear, honest advice on whether your shock absorbers still perform correctly or if a replacement is required — tailored to your car and its driving style.

A shock absorber helps keep your car stable, comfortable and in control. It doesn’t carry the vehicle’s weight — that’s the job of the springs — but it controls movement so your tyres stay in contact with the road.

In simple terms, this is how shock absorbers work:

• Damping movement: they slow down the up-and-down motion of the suspension after bumps
• Oil or gas control: internal valves regulate fluid flow to absorb energy and reduce bouncing
• Tyre contact: better contact with the road improves steering, braking and stability
• Driving comfort: vibrations and jolts are reduced for a smoother ride

Over time, internal components wear out, even without visible damage. As a result, shock absorbers lose effectiveness gradually — often without the driver noticing.

A professional shock absorber inspection at your local Bosch Car Service checks whether your suspension still works as intended. You’ll receive clear advice on whether your shock absorbers are performing properly or if a shock absorber replacement makes sense for your vehicle.

A shock absorber change is not a simple DIY job. Shock absorbers are part of the suspension system and directly affect braking, handling and vehicle stability. Replacing them incorrectly can reduce safety and cause uneven tyre wear or further damage.

Here’s why shock absorber replacement should be done by a professional workshop:

• Safety risks: suspension components are under high tension and require specialist tools
• Correct fitting: shock absorbers must be installed precisely and often replaced in pairs
• System check: worn mounts, springs or bushings are checked during a shock absorber inspection
• Driving safety: incorrect installation can affect steering, braking and stability
• Proper advice: not every symptom means replacement — a professional assessment avoids unnecessary costs

A trained workshop can safely carry out a shock absorber change, check the entire suspension and advise whether a shock absorber replacement is really needed — tailored to your vehicle and driving conditions.

During a shock absorber check, the workshop inspects whether your shock absorbers are still working correctly or showing signs of wear. If a shock absorber replacement is required, the service is carried out safely and professionally.

Typically, this includes:

• Inspection: visual and functional shock absorber inspection for leaks, wear or reduced damping
• Diagnosis: assessment of symptoms such as noise, poor stability or uneven tyre wear
• Replacement: professional shock absorber replacement, usually carried out in pairs where required
• System check: inspection of related suspension components
• Final check: road test and suspension safety check for stable handling and comfort

You’ll receive clear advice on whether a shock absorber replacement is necessary — and if so, the work is completed to manufacturer standards to restore safety and driving comfort.

The cost of a shock absorber replacement can vary significantly and depends on several factors. There is no one-size-fits-all price, as every vehicle and suspension setup is completely different.

What the cost depends on:

• Type of shock absorbers: standard, performance or vehicle-specific shock absorbers
• Vehicle design: front or rear axle, strut or separate damper design
• Extent of wear: whether related suspension components also need attention
• Replacement scope: single axle or full shock absorber replacement in pairs
• Labour effort: accessibility and technical requirements of your vehicle

Because of these variables, a professional inspection is always recommended.

Your local Bosch Car Service workshop will check your shock absorbers, explain the available options and advise you individually on whether a shock absorber replacement is necessary — and which solution best suits your vehicle and its driving needs.

There is no fixed replacement interval that applies to every vehicle. Shock absorbers wear gradually, and replacement timing depends on mileage, driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations.

In general, a shock absorber replacement may be worth considering:

• After higher mileage: many manufacturers recommend checking shock absorbers from around 50,000–80,000 miles
• Based on usage: frequent motorway driving, rough road surfaces or high vehicle loads can shorten service life
• For heavier vehicles: vans, SUVs and campers often place more stress on shock absorbers
• During suspension checks: regular inspections help assess performance before safety is affected

Because wear is progressive and not always obvious, a professional assessment is important.

A Bosch Car Service workshop near you can check your shock absorbers, consider your vehicle’s mileage and usage, and advise individually on whether a shock absorber replacement is recommended — tailored to your car and driving profile.