Crossover suspension Skoda Kodiaq is a complex engineering unit, the condition of which directly affects not only the comfort of the trip, but also the safety of all passengers. On Russian roads, which are full of uneven surfaces, it is the front shock absorbers that take the brunt of the impact, quickly losing their damping properties.
Many owners ignore the first signs of a malfunction, attributing extraneous sounds to the characteristics of the road surface. However, delays in replacement shock absorber can lead to accelerated wear of other chassis elements, including springs, silent blocks and even body elements.
In this article, we will look in detail at how to identify the problem at an early stage, which brands offer the best price-quality ratio for this model, and what to consider when replacing it yourself.
Signs of shock absorber wear on a Skoda Kodiaq
The first signal of problems with the suspension is often a change in the behavior of the car when driving. If you feel that Kodiaq began to lean on turns more than usual or sways for a long time after passing a speed bump, this is a sure sign of loss of efficiency shock absorber strut.
Particular attention should be paid to characteristic sounds. A dry knock when driving over small irregularities, creaking or grinding in the area of โโthe wheel arches is not just discomfort, but a warning of critical wear.
A visual examination can also provide a lot of information. Even if the car is on the lift, pay attention to the condition of the anthers and breakers. If there are cracks on them, and oil stains are visible on the shock absorber rod, replacement is inevitable.
Do not discount the uneven wear of tires. If you notice that the rubber is washed off by stains or the inside of the tread wears out faster, chances are the wheel is not pressing against the road properly due to a faulty tread. gas-oil shock absorber.
Original spare parts or analogues: what to choose?
Choosing between the original part and the quality analogue is an eternal dilemma for car owners. Original. shock absorber (part number often starts with the prefix 5Q0 or 3Q0) ensures that it meets the factory settings, but the price can be significantly higher than the market.
There are several proven manufacturers whose products are often supplied to the conveyor of the VAG concern itself. They're included Kyb, Sachs, Bilstein and Monroe. These brands offer products identical to the original, but at a more affordable price point.
When choosing analogues, it is important to take into account the specifics of operation. For hard roads, gas shock absorbers that provide a more rigid fixation of the rod are better suited, while oil or gas oil models are excellent for calm urban driving.
Remember that saving on suspension is a false saving. Cheap Chinese or little-known brands can last only a few thousand kilometers, after which they will require a revisit to the service and replacement of related elements.
- Original
- Gas-oil analogues
- Completely gas-fired
- Oil (for comfort)
Technical features of the Kodiaq suspension
Suspension design Skoda Kodiaq It is based on the MQB platform, which means the use of an independent front suspension of the McPherson type. The rear axle, depending on the modification and engine volume, can be both a multi-link and semi-dependent beam.
It is important to understand that the front racks on this model are often assembled with a spring and a support bearing. This simplifies the replacement, as it does not require the analysis of the spring on the stand, but increases the cost of the kit. Support bearing It is a weak spot and often requires replacement along with the counter.
The rear suspension is equipped with separate shock absorbers that are attached to the levers and the body. Here it is critically important to check the condition of the bushings of the transverse stability stabilizer, since their wear creates a characteristic knock, which can be mistaken for a malfunction of the shock absorber.
For all-wheel drive versions with a 4x4 system, the load on the suspension is distributed differently, so manufacturers often recommend installing reinforced shock absorbers that can withstand the additional weight of the transmission and a more aggressive driving style.
Diagnostics and status check
Self-checking shock absorbers does not require complex equipment, but requires care. The easiest way is to swing the car behind the wing. If after the cessation of efforts the machine continues to swing more than twice, the rack requires replacement.
A more accurate method is to inspect the stock. Clean the rod from dirt and oil, then drive a few kilometers with active driving. If after that on a clean rod there is a greasy plaque, tightness oil seal broken.
In service centers use special stands to check the effectiveness of the suspension. They measure the attenuation time of the wheel oscillations. If the rate exceeds the norm, the computer issues a verdict about the need for replacement.
โ๏ธ Suspension diagnostic checklist
Shock absorber replacement process
Replacing shock absorbers is a task that, with the availability of tools and skills, you can cope independently. However, for safe performance of work with the front suspension, a spring compressor will be required, since the spring is under high pressure.
Before starting work, it is necessary to fix the car on a flat surface and raise it on jacks. Remove the wheel, unscrew the bottom bolt of the shock absorber attachment to the swivel fist, and then disconnect the top nuts in the underhood space.
When installing a new rack, it is important to lubricate the threaded connections and check the condition of the bearing. If it has not changed with the counter, it should be carefully examined for backlashes and wear of the rubber sleeve.
After replacing all shock absorbers, descent-shattering is required. Changing the geometry of the suspension without adjusting the angles of the wheel installation will lead to rapid wear of the rubber and deterioration of handling.
Features of replacing rear shock absorbers
The rear shock absorbers on the Kodiaq are often changed along with the mounting bushings. It is recommended to use a special tool to tighten the bottom bolt so as not to turn the rod, as it can rotate inside the body.
Cost of work and components
The price of shock absorbers varies depending on the brand and region. The original can cost from 15 000 to 25 000 rubles apiece, while the qualitative analogue from the Sachs or Kyb It will cost 6 000 - 9 000 rubles.
The cost of replacement work in the service depends on the complexity of the design. For the front rack in the assembly take less than for a separate replacement of the shock absorber and spring. On average, replacing one wheel in the service costs from 2,500 to 4,000 rubles.
Donโt forget to budget for the cost of related materials: lubricants, bolts, nuts and possibly new anthers and breakers, which are often sold separately.
| Brand | Type | Average price (1 pc), rub. | Resource (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skoda (Original) | Gas-oil | 18 500 | 100 000+ |
| Sachs | Gas-oil | 8 200 | 80 000 |
| Kyb (Excel-G) | Gas | 7 500 | 70 000 |
| Monroe | Gas-oil | 6 800 | 60 000 |
โ ๏ธ Attention: Never change shock absorbers alone if they have significant mileage. The difference in stiffness of the new and old racks will lead to uneven load on other elements of the suspension and will worsen the stability of the car.
Tips for operation and service life extension
To shock absorbers served as long as possible, try to avoid sharp blows when passing deep pits. Slow down on irregularities to reduce peak loads on the rod and omentum.
Clean the suspension of dirt and reagents regularly, especially in winter. Aggressive chemicals can accelerate the corrosion of the body and destroy rubber elements.
Keep an eye on the condition of the wheels. A bent disc can disrupt balancing and create vibrations that are transmitted to the shock absorber, reducing its lifespan.
If you often drive off-road or full-load, consider installing reinforced shock absorbers. They have a higher safety margin and cope better with extreme loads.
Before winter, be sure to check the condition of the anthers of shock absorbers. The destroyed anther passes through dirt and abrasive, which acts as sandpaper on a rod, disabling the shock absorber in a matter of months.
Timely replacement of shock absorbers is an investment in the safety and safety of the rest of the suspension units, avoiding expensive repairs in the future.
โ ๏ธ Attention: When installing gas shock absorbers, it is strictly forbidden to pump them or disassemble them without special equipment. This can cause injuries due to the high pressure of the gas inside the housing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you change the shock absorbers on just one axis?
Technically, this is possible, but it is highly discouraged. If one rack is worn out, the second is likely to be close to the end of the resource. Different stiffness of shock absorbers on one axle will lead to instability of the car during braking and in corners. You need to change in pairs.
How long does it take to replace shock absorbers at a service center?
Replacing the front suspension assembly usually takes about 1.5-2 hours on one side. If you need to disassemble the spring and replace individual elements, the time can increase to 3-4 hours. The rear suspension changes faster, in about 1 hour.
Is it necessary to do a wheel alignment after replacement?
Yes, I will. Any interference with suspension geometry, including replacement of shock absorbers, can change the angles of the wheels. Without correction, this will lead to uneven wear of the tires and "steering" the car to the side when driving in a straight line.
Which shock absorbers are better: oil or gas?
For Skoda Kodiaq Gas oil shock absorbers are most often recommended. They offer a balance between comfort and handling. Purely gas-fired roads are too rigid for our roads, and purely oil-fired roads can be too soft and do not provide stability at high speeds.
Is it possible to drive with a faulty shock absorber?
You can drive, but it's dangerous. The braking distance increases, the course stability deteriorates, and in case of an emergency maneuver, the car can go into a skid. In addition, the load on other elements of the suspension and the body increases significantly.