ABOUT USED SHOCKS

WHAT ARE SHOCKS?

Shocks or a shock absorber is a mechanical or hydraulic damper.

WHAT DO SHOCKS DO?

Shocks are designed to absorb the dampen shock impulses caused by changes in road conditions caused by rocks, pebbles, potholes, uneven surfaces, or other driving obstacles.

WHAT DO SHOCKS LOOK LIKE?

A shock absorber is a long cylindrical part that may have a coil around it. The size of the shock can vary depending on a number of factors including the size of the wheel.

WHERE IS THERE PART TYPICALLY LOCATED ON THE VEHICLE?

Shocks are located between the wheel and the frame of the vehicle. Typically, a vehicle will have four shocks.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN USED SHOCKS?

You want to make sure that the mechanical and hydraulic features are still in working condition. Also, you want to check that the shocks are free of any impact damage such as dents and brakes in the coil. Finally, you want to make sure that the shock is free of any structural damage that can negatively impact its performance.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT SHOCKS BEFORE I PURCHASE ONE?

Shocks are different from struts. However, both parts look similar. Also, you will want to know the difference between a mechanical and a hydraulic shock. Finally, it is important that you get a used shock absorber that is appropriate for the type of driving that you are looking for in a vehicle. For instance, if you want to engage in off road driving, then you will want high quality shocks.

WHAT OTHER PARTS ARE CONNECTED TO SHOCKS THAT I MAY NEED?

The upper part of the shock connects to the frame while the lower part of the shock connects to the wheel. You may need a shock mounting kit in order to install the part. What signs of wear should I look at when buying used shocks?

BE SURE TO LOOK FOR WORN SPRINGS OR A WORN-OUT HYDRAULICS WHEN LOOKING AT USED SHOCKS. ALSO, BE SURE TO LOOK FOR RUST SPOTS.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF SHOCKS?

The average lifespan of shocks depends on how often the shocks were needed for rough driving conditions. If a vehicle has been off-roaded often, then you can expect to get about five years from shocks. However, if the vehicle has been driven on flat roads, the shocks can last as long as 10 years. If you are purchasing used shocks from a salvage yard, consider the overall condition of the vehicle. If the vehicle looks as though it was well-maintained, it’s likely the shocks are in good shape as well. If the vehicle looks like it was in a demolition derby, you may want to get them off a different vehicle.

WHEN SHOULD THE PART BE REPLACED?

Shocks should be replaced when you notice a rougher ride on the vehicle or if the vehicle is riding lower to the ground.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SHOCKS

WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF SHOCKS?

The parts of shocks include the following:

• Boot kit & bumper
• Coil spring
• Upper spring seat
• Strut mount bearing plate
• Upper and lower isolators

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SHOCKS AND STRUTS?

Shocks designed to absorb the shocks of driving on uneven roads can be placed on all four wheels of a vehicle. Struts are typically found on the front of front wheel drives of vehicles. The purpose of struts is to support the weight of the vehicle and adapt to road irregularities.

HOW MUCH CAN IT COST TO HAVE SHOCKS INSTALLED?

Since shocks should always be replaced in pairs, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for the installation of a pair of shock absorbers. An individual shock absorber can cost between $50 and $140 – so $100 to $280 for a pair. Pull-A-Part sells shock absorbers for $8 to $16 depending on the type – so it may be worth your effort to search for a compatible pair of shock absorbers at a local salvage yard. For additional information on our pricing for shocks, shock absorbers, struts and related parts, please refer to the used auto parts Parts Pricing section of our website.

HOW LONG WILL USED SHOCKS LAST?

Used shocks can last anywhere from three to five years. The actual lifespan of a used pair of shocks will depend on how you drive the vehicle and where you drive the vehicle. If you often off-road a vehicle, then the shocks will wear out a lot quicker than driving the vehicle on a flat asphalt road.

WHAT TOOLS DO I NEED TO REMOVE SHOCKS?

We recommend searching YouTube for a video on how to remove shock absorbers for your specific vehicle. Most videos include an overview of the tools you will need for the job. In general, the tools you need to remove shock absorbers from a vehicle at a salvage yard include a 15mm and 18mm Socket, Ratchet, and a Breaker Bar.