Inspection campaigns by ADE premium shock supplier Sachs have confirmed that approx. 14% of vehicles tested have got at least one defective shock absorber. For vehicles with worn or defective shock absorbers there can be serious consequences. The stopping distance becomes longer, because the car's road contact is no longer optimally ensured and many electronic driver assistance systems, such as ESP, ABS and traction control will have their performance compromised.

The stopping distance can increase by up to 14% or five and a half meters if braking at full power from a speed of 100 km/h with shock absorbers which perform only half of their original function.

Drivers do not notice wear of their shock absorbers and therefore depend on the professional advice from their workshop. If the shock absorbers no longer prevent the car body from pitching and vibrating, then it is more difficult to control the vehicle during evasive actions. Its cornering ability generally becomes unstable and the car is more prone to aquaplaning. In addition, the shock absorber wear has a negative impact in other areas such as tyres and chassis components, such as tie-rod ends or steering devices which are exposed to greater wear.

Particularly at this time year shock checks are essential and could be a life saver.