Checking shock absorbers (Renault 19)

Deterioration of shock absorbers is often difficult to notice due to constantly changing driving conditions. The rule of thumb is that after two sets of tires have worn out, stock shock absorbers are only working at half their original efficiency and need to be replaced.

You will not get an accurate idea of their condition using the well-known "swing method" in a stationary car, in which you press the car over the wheel being checked and suddenly release it: the spring movement should be damped immediately. Only a completely faulty shock absorber can be detected in this way.

A more accurate idea of the condition of the shock absorber is given by a special test bench, such as, "Shocktester" (Shock tester) from God. The damping of vibrations of a pre-rocked car is depicted in the form of a diagram.

For testing, the shock absorber fluid should not be too cold, otherwise the result will be incorrect. The condition of the shock absorbers is determined based on the diagram.