Shock Absorbers

Does the body keep bouncing after a bump, or does your lifted pickup need shocks that match the new ride height? In this category we bring together shock absorbers for everyday road driving, performance driving and off-road, as well as spare parts for maintenance. The right shock depends on your car model, suspension and how you use the car.

What does a shock absorber do?

The spring carries the weight of the car, while the shock absorber slows down the spring's movements so the wheel stays in contact with the road and the body doesn't keep oscillating. Worn shocks can lead to longer braking distances, more body roll and uneven tyre wear. The shock works together with the springs, so if you change the springs or ride height, the shock should typically be chosen to suit the new setup.

How to choose shock absorbers

Start with what the car will be used for and what suspension it has:

• Use: Performance shock absorbers are typically aimed at firm road driving and track use, while off-road shock absorbers are designed for rough terrain, longer suspension travel and the heat that hard driving can generate.
• Fitment: Many shocks fit a specific model, model year, axle and side, e.g. front right. Off-road products often also state the lift height, e.g. 0-1.5 inches.
• Type: Choose between a separate shock absorber and a complete strut assembly, e.g. KYB Strut Plus. Check the product description to see what is included.
• Adjustment: Whether the damping is adjustable depends on the product. Adjustability lets you fine-tune the car, but requires you to test the settings.

In this category you will find brands such as KYB, Bilstein, King Shocks, Bitubo Suspension and QA1.

Installation and maintenance

Shock absorbers should typically be replaced in pairs on the same axle so the car behaves the same on both sides. Fitting struts requires spring compressors and the correct tightening torque, and after work on the front axle a wheel alignment may be necessary. Regularly check for oil leaks, worn bushings and damaged dust boots. For repairs and conversions we offer shock absorber spare parts.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if my shock absorbers are worn?

Typical signs are that the car bounces after bumps, leans more in corners, dives under braking or shows uneven tyre wear. Visible oil on the shock body can also indicate a leaking shock.

Should shock absorbers be replaced in pairs?

It is typically recommended to replace both shocks on the same axle at the same time. A new and a worn shock can damp differently, making the car behave unevenly when braking and cornering.

Can I use standard shock absorbers after a lift?

Not necessarily. A lift changes the shock's working range, so the length must match the new ride height. Many off-road shocks state the lift height in the product name, e.g. 0-2 inches.

Do new shock absorbers require approval for the vehicle inspection?

It depends on the product and the car. If the shock changes the ride height or is part of a conversion, you should check the rules and any documentation for the specific part number before driving the car on public roads.