The Bump Test: How to Tell if Your Shocks and Struts Are Ready to Retire

The bump test is a simple method to check their condition, and can catch early signs of suspension wear before it becomes a problem. To maintain the safety of your cars, Wright's Car Care has explained the solution to shocks and struts in this article.

What the Bump Test Involves

The bump test can be performed without basic tools. Just move to a corner of the car, use both hands on the hood or trunk and push down as hard as possible. Observe what happens next.

If a car's shocks and struts are working properly, it will rise back up and come to a stop almost instantly, with no additional motion. This is a controlled response with little delay which will allow the suspension to absorb energy as it normally does.

What the Result Tells You

When the car bounces two or more times upon release, the car's shocks or struts are not functioning. This is a continuous movement, meaning that the part is no longer capable of controlling the spring after impact. It is now just allowing the car to rock freely rather than dampening. 

Shocks or struts at this stage are no longer in a state of wearing down, but are in retirement stage. For this, a firm stop and one bounce is ok. Anything else is a sure sign that the components are in need of replacement. 

Other Confirming Signs They Are Finished

When you combine the bump test results with your driving experience, it becomes clearer. The nose diving during braking, body lean when making a sharp turn, and loose/delayed feeling of the steering wheel during braking are all signs of a failed bump test.

Also, cupped or uneven tyre wear is due to lose of contact with the road because of the suspension's inability to support them.

Why Auto Repair Matters Here

After the bump test, if worn parts are found and not replaced, then the problem may escalate. Your tires stay in contact with the road surface thanks to the shocks and struts that keep them there, ensuring reliable braking and steering.

If that control is not in place, stopping distances extend, which could be unsafe. Auto repair in Atlanta, GA should be done swiftly, after confirming the bump test results. This is to prevent deterioration from spreading to other parts like wheel bearings, tie rods, and ball joints.

Getting a Full Inspection Done

A bump test provides a good starting point, but a comprehensive evaluation at a quality auto repair shop will ensure you get the full picture. There, a technician will check for isolated damage and other suspension issues. He will examine the mounting hardware, bushings, and other defects. 

That's not all. Our teams at Wright's Car Care will also ensure that all parts related to the problem are checked before beginning any work.

Keeping You In charge of Your Journey is our Priority

At Wright's Car Care, your safety is our priority. We encourage our customers to do the bump tests. It lasts just less than a minute but provides critical information about your vehicle's safety. If you notice continuous bouncing or defects, then your shocks and struts are at the end of their lifecycle and require replacement.

Get your car to our workshop to enable a skilled auto repair professional provide suspension care and thorough evaluation it deserves.