When a Shock Breaks: How We Found (and Fixed) a Hidden Safety Hazard

When this customer came in, they were frustrated by a deep thudding noise every time their car hit a bump. Once our technician Alex lifted the vehicle, the cause was clear, a rear shock absorber had completely broken apart, leaving that corner of the car unstable and unsafe.

This repair might sound simple, but it reveals one of the most misunderstood parts of your suspension, and why shocks are more than just “ride comfort.”

What Shocks Actually Do

Every car has a suspension system made to do two things: absorb bumps and keep the tires in contact with the road. Springs handle the bounce, but shocks (or struts) control that motion.

Imagine pushing down on a spring, without a shock, it would bounce up and down over and over. The shock’s job is to slow that movement and stabilize the car after each bump.

When a shock is working properly, it:

• Keeps your tires planted on uneven pavement

• Reduces body roll during turns

• Shortens stopping distance

• Prevents “nose dive” when braking or “squat” when accelerating

• Helps tires wear evenly

When it fails, everything changes — traction, control, and braking all suffer.

Signs of a Bad or Broken Shock

It’s not always obvious that a shock has failed, but there are clear warning signs:

• Thudding or knocking when driving over bumps

• Excessive bounce — the car keeps moving after you hit a bump

• Uneven tire wear (cupped or scalloped tread)

• Leaking fluid around the shock or strut housing

• “Floating” or wandering feel on the highway

• Longer stopping distances or early ABS activation

If a shock breaks completely (like the one we found) the car essentially runs on three stable corners and one that’s unpredictable. That can lead to dangerous wheel hop, loss of traction, or skidding during braking.

How We Fixed It

Our technician Alex replaced the damaged shock and upper mount, torqued every bolt to factory spec, and checked the springs, control arms, bushings, and links for collateral damage.

We always replace shocks in axle pairs (both rears or both fronts) to maintain balance and stability. After installation, we performed a road test and alignment check to verify safe handling and even tire contact.

The result? A smoother ride, consistent braking, and zero thuds — just a confident, planted feel.

Why Suspension Maintenance Is So Important

Your shocks don’t usually fail overnight — they wear gradually. Most manufacturers recommend replacing shocks or struts every 50,000–100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Here in New England, road salt, potholes, and harsh winters speed up that wear. Corrosion can eat away at mounts, seals, and bolts, especially on older vehicles.

A simple annual suspension check can catch small issues before they become safety hazards. It’s part of how we keep our customers’ cars roadworthy year-round.

Precision Auto’s Process

When you bring your car to Precision Auto Repair, you can expect:

• A digital inspection with photos and notes

• OE-quality or better parts for every repair

• Proper torque-to-spec installation

• Post-repair

  road test and alignment verification

• Clear, honest communication before any work begins

We’re not here to upsell — we’re here to make sure you understand your car and feel confident behind the wheel.

Final Thoughts

If you’re hearing clunks, feeling bounce, or noticing uneven tire wear, your shocks might be telling you something.A quick inspection today can prevent unsafe handling — and save you from costly tire or suspension damage down the road.

👉 Schedule your suspension check online or call Precision Auto Repair in West Springfield today. Clear answers. Safe miles. Done right.

Precision Wraps

529 College Highway,

Southwick, MA

413-579-7477