Checking shock absorbers (Opel Vectra B)

Shock absorbers usually do not fail suddenly, their effectiveness weakens gradually, to which you get used to imperceptibly. The rule of thumb is: after two worn sets of tires, serial shock absorbers have only 50% of their original effectiveness and are therefore ripe for replacement.

It is impossible to make an accurate diagnosis by the well-known "rocking method" of a parked car, in which the car is rocked by the wing at the corresponding shock absorber and then suddenly released. The springing movement should be damped immediately. This can only determine a completely failed shock absorber.

A more accurate picture of the shock absorber's condition will be given by a special test stand. The diagram can be used to determine the shock absorbers' performance. Such test stands are available in car clubs for use by car tourists, as well as in some TU$V workshops and test laboratories.

[Material copied from this portal: www.opelbook.ru]