Checking the smooth movement of the shock absorber rod
External manifestations that indicate a faulty shock absorber:
- prolonged rocking of the body when driving on uneven road surfaces;
- increasing body vibration when driving on uneven road surfaces;
- uneven and unstable movement of the wheels (bouncing) when driving in a certain speed range, including on turns;
- deviation from the intended trajectory of the vehicle during braking;
- unstable cornering and skidding of the car;
- increased tire wear characterized by abrasion of the tire pattern;
- the appearance of clicks and extraneous noise when the vehicle is moving. Clicks and light impacts can also be caused by other suspension faults, in particular, loose threaded connections, failure of hub bearings or worn constant velocity joints of drive shafts.
The condition of the shock absorber can be checked manually or using special equipment.
To check, remove the shock absorber from the vehicle.
(The original text is available on the website: VWmanual)
Check the entire length of the shock absorber rod for pitting. Check the shock absorber body for mechanical damage. Set the shock absorber in a vertical position and check its operation by moving the shock absorber rod through its full stroke. Also check the operation of the shock absorber by moving the shock absorber rod up and down a distance of 50–100 mm. In all cases, the shock absorber rod should move smoothly with noticeable resistance. If the shock absorber rod moves jerkily or there is mechanical damage, the shock absorber must be replaced, see Fig. Checking the smoothness of the shock absorber rod movement.
In a gas-filled shock absorber, the shock absorber rod can spontaneously extend from the shock absorber. If the rod does not spontaneously extend from the shock absorber, this does not indicate a malfunction of the shock absorber. In this case, the operating mode of the gas-filled shock absorber corresponds to the operating mode of a hydraulic shock absorber. The shock absorber performs its functions without excess gas pressure, but additional noise may appear when the shock absorber piston moves.
Check the shock absorber for signs of shock absorber fluid leakage. Minor oil leaks are acceptable while maintaining normal shock absorber functionality. If the fluid leakage from the shock absorber reaches only the lower spring support, this is considered normal. Minor fluid leakage from the shock absorber also lubricates the shock absorber rod sealing ring, which increases its service life.
If there are significant fluid leaks from the shock absorber, the shock absorber must be replaced.
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