Checking the shock absorber (Opel Vectra A)

The following signs indicate a faulty shock absorber:

• prolonged vibrations of the body when driving on an uneven road;
• strong rocking of the body on uneven surfaces following one another;
• a sharp rise in the front of the car during acceleration;
• "bouncing " wheels (even on a flat road);
• strong lowering of the front of the car when braking (there may be other reasons);
• knocking when moving (there may be other reasons).

Examination

The approximate condition of the shock absorber can be determined manually. However, an accurate check is only possible on a special stand.

(Material taken from an internet portal www.opelbook.ru)

Remove the shock absorber.

Holding the shock absorber vertically, stretch and compress it. Throughout the entire range of motion, the rod should move evenly, without jerking.

Under normal operation, small traces of oil are not a reason to replace the shock absorber.

If there is a large loss of oil, the shock absorber should be replaced.