Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Shock absorbers

Shock Absorbers on the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: What They Do and How to Keep Them in Top Shape

The 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, like most modern SUVs, comes equipped with shock absorbers as an essential part of its suspension system. Shock absorbers play a crucial role in providing a smooth and controlled ride, especially on varied Australian roads where conditions can range from smooth highways to rough rural tracks. They are not just simple components but key contributors to overall vehicle safety, comfort, and handling.

Shock absorbers, sometimes known as dampers, work by controlling the movement of the vehicle's suspension springs. When the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross hits a bump or a pothole, the springs compress and extend to absorb the impact. Without shock absorbers, these springs would continue to bounce for a while, leading to an uncomfortable, unstable driving experience. Shock absorbers dampen this bounce by converting kinetic energy from the suspension movement into heat, which is then dissipated. This keeps the vehicle's tyres firmly in contact with the road, improving traction and stability.

For a city SUV like the Eclipse Cross, shock absorbers strike a perfect balance between comfort and handling. Whether you are cruising down the freeway or tackling uneven suburban streets, the shocks help maintain consistent tyre contact to avoid skidding or excessive body roll when cornering. This makes driving not only more enjoyable but safer too, especially during unexpected manoeuvres or emergency braking.

When it comes to maintenance and replacement, shock absorbers are often overlooked because they do not wear out as quickly as tyres or brake pads. However, over time, the internal components such as seals and valves can degrade, or the oil inside can leak, leading to reduced damping efficiency. This can result in symptoms such as a bouncy ride, excessive nose diving during braking, longer stopping distances, and uneven tyre wear.

To keep the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross performing at its best, it is sensible to have shock absorbers inspected regularly, typically every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres, or sooner if the vehicle is regularly driven on rough roads. Signs that shocks need attention include:

• Increased bouncing after hitting bumps
• Uneven or rapid tyre wear
• Longer braking distances
• Fluid leaks visible on or near the shock absorber body
• Excessive body roll when cornering

Replacing shock absorbers is not just about restoring comfort, it's about safety and protecting other suspension and steering components from premature wear. Worn shocks put more strain on springs, ball joints, and tyres, which can lead to more costly repairs down the track. Additionally, after installing new shocks, it is advisable to have a wheel alignment check to ensure the vehicle handles correctly and tyres wear evenly.

When sourcing replacement shock absorbers for the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, choosing quality parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications is important. Genuine or high-quality aftermarket components ensure that damping characteristics match the vehicle's design, maintaining the balance between ride comfort and handling performance.

If unsure about the condition of the shock absorbers on a 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, a simple walk-around inspection or test drive can help identify obvious issues, but a professional mechanic's assessment is the safest bet. They can perform a more detailed inspection and recommend suitable replacements if needed.

Incorporating shock absorber checks into regular servicing routines will help keep the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross driving smoothly and safely for years to come. Whether navigating tight city streets or going off the beaten track, well-maintained shocks ensure the vehicle delivers the ride quality and reliability drivers expect from this popular compact SUV.