When replacing a shock absorber, make sure that the same
make is always used again.
Note that the only way of exactly determining when a
shock absorber has to be replaced (assuming that the
shock absorber is still in the car) is to use shock absorber has
been removed from the car, use a shock absorber tester¹)
to find out for sure whether it has to be replaced.
Basically, it may be assumed that after two sets of tyres
have been used, the shock absorber will have 50% or less
of their original dampening effect.
Whenever this is the cross, check the shock absorbers. Note
that the absorbers should always be replaced in pairs
for one axle.


¹) for shock absorber tester values, see Specifications.