Shock Absorber Replacement in Tyne and Wear

Springs support the car, but it is the shock absorbers, properly called dampers, that control how the springs move. Without good damping, the body keeps bouncing after a bump and the tyres struggle to stay in contact with the road.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we replace shock absorbers for drivers across Tyne and Wear. Wear is gradual, so many people do not notice how much a car has deteriorated until it is put right.

Signs of tired shock absorbers

The clearest sign is a car that continues to bounce or float after a dip or speed bump. You may also notice the nose diving under braking, body roll in corners, or the car being unsettled in crosswinds.

Oil leaking down the body of the damper, knocking or clunking over bumps, and tyre wear in a cupped or patchy pattern are further clues. Because braking and handling are affected, do not leave it for long.

• Bouncing or floating after bumps
• Nose dive when braking
• Clunks or knocks from the suspension
• Oily, wet damper bodies
• Uneven or scalloped tyre wear

What the job involves

We inspect the dampers, springs, top mounts, bump stops and gaiters together, because they work as a system. On many cars the damper sits inside a coil spring, and the spring has to be compressed safely to separate them, which needs the right tools.

Shock absorbers are replaced in pairs across an axle so the two sides behave the same. After fitting, bolts are tightened with the car at the correct load, and we check the steering and tyres for anything that needs attention.

What affects the outcome and the cost

Front and rear units differ in design and price, and cars with adjustable or electronic dampers can be considerably more involved. Part quality varies too, and the right choice depends on how you use the car, such as carrying loads or towing.

Other worn parts found during the job, such as mounts, bearings or springs, can add to the work. Rusted and seized fixings are common on older vehicles. We explain what is needed and what could wait at the estimate.

What to expect afterwards

The car should feel more settled, with less bounce and a steadier front end under braking. The change is often bigger than drivers expect, as the decline was gradual.

If you tow, carry heavy loads or have changed wheel sizes, tell us. It may affect what is suitable. Also mention any steering or alignment concerns, as worn suspension can influence tyre wear.