Running gear and suspension: shock absorbers, arms, bearings
Suspension wears slowly, but shows suddenly
A knock over bumps, body roll, the car “wandering” to one side, a hum that grows with speed, uneven tyre wear: these are the typical signals. Different symptoms point to different parts: a knock to stabiliser links or ball joints, a hum to a wheel bearing, swaying to the shock absorbers. It is best to show the car once to a mechanic on a lift and then order only the parts that really need changing. On roads with potholes and speed breakers, suspension parts wear faster than people expect.
Replace in pairs on one axle
Shock absorbers and springs are usually changed in pairs (left and right), because a difference in wear spoils the handling. The same goes for arms, bushes and wheel bearings when both are worn. Before buying shock absorbers, decide what driving style you need: oil ones are softer, gas ones hold the road more firmly. For an overloaded car or frequent trips on rough roads, look for reinforced versions.
What to put in your request
- Which part — shock absorbers, springs, arms, ball joint, stabiliser link, wheel bearing.
- Model and year — for example, Honda City, 2014.
- Axle — front or rear; and the side for paired parts.
- VIN — to check the suspension version.
- Original or aftermarket — a known brand or another one.
- Condition — new or used.
- Quantity — a pair or a set.
- Fitting — if you need it at a garage, and your budget.
Example: “I need front shock absorbers (a pair) for a Honda City, 2014. New, from a known brand or an aftermarket of the same quality. Fitting at a garage together with wheel alignment is needed. Budget up to HK$750.”
How to compare offers
Send one request, and sellers will reply in the chat: brand, condition, price, warranty. The platform shows first the offer that is best on content, with reviews of the seller beside each. Sellers compete for your request because they can see their place. Contacts are hidden. How it all works is on the “How it works” page.
Look at what is included in the price: the top mount, bump stop and dust boot are not always supplied with the shock absorber. For a ball joint, check whether it is sold separately or as part of the arm. For a wheel bearing, state whether it has an ABS sensor and whether it comes as a unit with the hub, as there are many variants. For used shock absorbers, ask about oil leaks and the maker; for springs, about the condition of the coating and the mileage.
Common mistakes
Changing one shock absorber instead of a pair. Buying parts “by model” without checking the suspension version and engine. Tightening the bushes while the wheel hangs: after the car is lowered the rubber twists and tears quickly. Skipping wheel alignment after replacement. See related parts in steering and brake system, and the full catalogue in car parts.
