Checking the condition of shock absorbers (Audi A4 B6)

After wearing out two sets of tires, shock absorbers usually lose half of their effectiveness, in which case they should be replaced. Most drivers unknowingly compensate for the decreasing effectiveness of shock absorbers by driving accordingly. For accurate diagnostics, shock absorbers should be checked once a year on a special stand. The rocking method, which involves rocking the car on the appropriate wing and then quickly releasing it, does not replace a serious check. This method allows you to identify only a completely faulty shock absorber. However, there are a number of signs that indicate low effectiveness of shock absorbers. Please pay attention to the following points.

1. Does the steering vibrate? In this case, the wheels do not have constant contact with the ground.

2. Does the body sway after bumps in the road?

3. Is the car too soft when driving around a curve? In this case, the wheels on the inside of the turn do not press the ground with enough force, and the outside wheels are not relieved enough.

4. Do the wheels bounce even on a normal road?

5. Do the tires wear evenly?

(Text provided by the online resource: «AUDImanual»)