Dampers - shock absorbers - life

[sfj642]

what sort of life can you expect out of dampers on these cars ?

OK I know it depends how you drive it, but would you say dampers need changing 30,000 miles - 50,000 miles or maybe these never wear out ?

and if so, are they easy to change?

any constructive thoughts would be helpful

[davidireland]

Shocks are something that doen't hugely go wrong on Peugeots.
I own a Partner van with 194k miles on it and its still on its original shocks. The front springs snapped though with the cold weather last year but I fitted new ones over the original shocks. The passed the roadworthy test with flying colours.

To your other question, they are not as easy as you think to change. The spring has to be compressed with special tools to allow them to be removed. I wouldn't go doing it DIY unless you know what you are doing.

[sfj642]

Thanks David - that's helpful; almost all cars I have bought over the years seem to have needed replacement dampers so I always EXPECT to have to change them. The sellers must have seen me coming !

I am quite used to changing dampers, including McPherson struts - if you have done a Jaguar rear suspension you can do most things !

My wife's car does have a slight suspension knock which is the reason I asked - are there any bushes that wear fast - it's only done 19,000 miles but it does sound like a bush or a loose damper mounting. Passes the MOT OK but annoying.

Thanks for quick reply

[davidireland]

Check the simple things first. Have a look at the anti roll links on the front first.

[sfj642]

Thanks again David - will get to grips with them soon enough I expect.

[Thunderstorm]

Shocks last about 90k to 160k on good even roads but do not like potholes as I broke 2 alredy on these pethetic South African roads. If you want tech help on diy head to the facebook page I manage Peugeot 1007, I have done 2 front shocks and posted a document on it as some other tech as well.