What is a common method for assessing the condition of shock absorbers?

Performing a bounce test is a practical and common method for assessing the condition of shock absorbers. This test involves bouncing each corner of the vehicle to observe how it reacts. When a vehicle's corner is pushed down and then released, a properly functioning shock absorber should allow the vehicle to return to its normal ride height smoothly and stop bouncing after one or two oscillations. If the vehicle continues to bounce excessively, it indicates that the shock absorbers may be worn out or inefficient, as they are not properly dampening the motion.

This method is advantageous because it provides immediate feedback on the performance of the shock absorbers and does not require specialized tools. It can be easily performed during a routine inspection by technicians, making it a valuable diagnostic tool in evaluating suspension health.