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Can oil filled shocks fail; even if they dont show signs of leaking......your views plese Steve.
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Doubt it by why do you ask?
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If by 'fail' you mean lose their damping abilities, the answer is yes. Basically the oil loses viscosity, the internal components age and dampers exhibit reduced ability to control the car's movement. This can happen without leakage.
The 'bounce test' is meaningless, as it doesn't put in anything like the energy that a moving car does. It's generally reckoned that dampers have lost enough performance to noticeably affect the car's handling after 80 -100k miles and replacement will produce very significant benefits. Problem is it's a steady loss of performance, so their deterioration is not always noticed.
When I sold my 80k mile Vectra, the rear dampers were certainly due for replacement.
Regards
John S
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Thanks lads ...my vectra estate has done 150k+ ,i got this bumping at the rear end that wont go away. i had the mid and rear exhaust sections changed ,but its ok ,dosent catch anything.
I replaced the anti rollbar bushes and checked for loose items, i even checked the roof supports as i've heard that they can come loose and emit sound.SO its only the shocks now,but as i say the show no signs of leaks???????? any more help appreciated. Regards Steve.
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I would go along with John-s.dampers are something that is forgotten.usuall test is a load of rubbish.and as far as I`m aware no way of proving dampers to be ok/faulty.although cannot say for certain dampers are at fault.would recommend new ones anyway.Due to mileage.many a question arise from this?.unless I can be corrected here.
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You should consider them a 100-150k mile service items anyway, why be driven by failure? The original dampers are SACHS/Boge, and can be had from a motor factor for £30-40 each, and take 20mins to fit (if you go to a fast fit place during the week when quiet, they may fit for a few notes) Unless your dampers are the self levelling ones (£170 each from dealer, which is why mine are still on after 160k but they seem OK)
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Thanks for the replies got a new pair of rear shocks this morning from PartCo 48.00 quid inc VAT will fit them over the weekend and let you know the results . regards Steve
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