SHOCK ABSORBERS THE HIDDEN DANGER

What is of even more concern is that the majority of car owners are not even aware of the potential dangers. They do not know what shock absorber does, and because it is hidden behind the car's wheel, never think about the need for checking or replacement.

Think about your shock absorbers is the simple message to the motorist - particularly owners of cars that are four years old or more. While your shock absorbers may not need replacing now, have them checked regularly and enjoy the peace of mind that your car is running safely.

The danger of worn shocks

A vehicle's safety relies on having good tyres, brakes and steering. The role of the shock absorber is to keep the car's tyres in permanent contact with the road, helping to provide optimum grip in the wet, when cornering and especially when braking. By being part of the suspension, it also contributes enormously towards ride comfort.

On a car with worn shock absorbers, no matter how efficient the other safety features - tyres and brakes for example - the safety of the vehicle, its occupants and other road users is seriously compromised.

Ignorance

Just as the role of the shock absorber is not generally understood, neither are the affects of worn shocks. These include:

Reduced braking efficiency/ longer braking distances:

A car with 50% worn shocks needs an extra 2.1 metres (6.9ft) to stop when braking from a speed of 50mph in dry conditions.

With just one defective shock absorber, the same car takes 2.6 metres (8.5ft).

Braking on a curved road at 30mph with one rear shock absorber requires a further 2.3 metres (7.5ft) to stop.

Reduced Cornering Ability:

On a...