Shocks bad?

[dmasini]

What's a good way to find out if shocks are bad/going bad? Besides of course pushing down on the hood and counting the bounces? My shocks have never been replaced as far as I know and I'm just over 57k on them. They are softer than they used to be and the driver's side front may be making a noise.

How long should the stock shocks last?

 

[Nick_Good]

the OEM shocks should still be good. If they are bothering you replace them. One way to check is to go over a decent size bump and if you hear them bottom out replace them. You might be happier with after market shocks. Many companied make them specificaly for different things, just search.
-Nick

 

[BigDave!!!]

get under the car and look at where the shock shaft goes into the body, if the seal is broken it will be leaking fluid and the body should be a little damp, usually that is a sign of them going or being bad. sorry for the vague discription...

 

[dmasini]

Nick, I think that could be the noise I hear is one of them bottoming out now that you mention it.

Dave, thanks for the advice, I will check that out when I head out to lunch in a few...