Shock absorbers are a critical yet often overlooked safety component in modern vehicles

To help maximise both safety and ride comfort, ZF Aftermarket has shared expert advice on maintaining and replacing shock absorbers.
Vehicle manufacturers have optimised the design of their cars to handle most road conditions, while providing a comfortable and smooth ride.
However, like any mechanical component, shock absorbers gradually wear over time, which can affect both handling and safety.
For this reason, the experts at ZF Aftermarket recommend that shock absorbers be inspected every 20,000 kilometers and replaced after around 80,000 kilometers.
When functioning correctly, shock absorbers help control a vehicle’s handling, keep tyres firmly in contact with the road surface, and ensure a quiet and comfortable 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 on the tread.
A defective, or worn, shock absorber can impair the vehicle’s traction and stability on uneven roads or in curves. Not only that, but it can also create a risk of aquaplaning even at lower speeds meaning that safety systems, such as ABS slip and stability control, may not be fully functional.
The braking distance is also increased, meaning that the tyres are no longer as effective as they used to 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, it is recommended that workshops inspect and/or replace the ride control components, when replacing shock absorbers and struts.
It is also essential that shock absorbers are always replaced in pairs.

SACHS shock absorbers
A brand of ZF Aftermarket, SACHS shock absorbers 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 dynamic, ZF says SACHS shock absorbers ensure perfect road grip and cornering behaviour, no matter what challenges the road may present.
Locally, the SACHS range has over 3,000 shock absorber references, with a combination of monotube and twin-tube gas pressurised shock technology throughout the entire range.
In addition to traditional shock absorbers, the SACHS range now includes air struts and air springs to meet the growing demand for vehicles equipped with air suspension.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/au or contact the ZF Customer Solutions Team on 02 9679 5555.