Shock absorbers - Passat

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Mon 11 Apr 2005 19:59
Shock absorbers - Passat - catcher
I just wondered what the feeling is about changing shock absorbers. My '94 Passat has done 103,000 miles and recently the handling has felt a bit 'different' - not quite as sure-footed as it used to be (although it's never been great). The shock absorbers seem OK (pass the 'bounce' test, and no leaks) but I wonder if they should be changed. I know the recommendation is to change them more frequently than people might but can't help thinking there's no point spending money unnecessarily.
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Mon 11 Apr 2005 20:33
Shock absorbers - Passat - mfarrow
www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=9192

was the thread I was reading just the other night. Also type "shock absorber" as subject in forum search to your right and you'll find plenty.

General opinion is 100k from what I've read.

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Mike Farrow
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Wed 13 Apr 2005 16:19
Shock absorbers - Passat - John F
Carry on thinking just that! I was once conned into changing shock absorbers unnecessarily - have never changed any since. Our '93 Passat's lasted over 200,000.
If handling feels a bit different I would suspect bushes on suspension joints - wait till next MoT!
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Thu 14 Apr 2005 22:10
Shock absorbers - Passat - catcher
Thanks for that John F. Actually, on investigation I found one of the rear wheel bearings needed tightening. Once I'd done that it was much better - good for another 100,000!
catcher
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