Replacing shock absorbers with ŠKODA Rapid - not just a technical necessity, but an opportunity to radically improve the handling, comfort and safety of the car. Brand SS20 has long established itself as one of the leaders among manufacturers of struts and shock absorbers for European cars, offering the optimal ratio of price, quality and durability. However, choosing a specific model for Rapid (especially taking into account generations NH1 and NH3) requires taking into account nuances: from suspension type to driving style.
In this article we will look at what shock absorbers SS20 suitable for ŠKODA Rapid different years of manufacture, how to select them correctly by article number, and also give step-by-step instructions for replacement, taking into account typical errors. We will pay special attention the unique problem of “knock” on bumps in Rapid after 2018 - and how to avoid it when installing SS20. For clarity, we provide a comparative table of models, reviews from real owners and a FAQ with answers to the most controversial questions.
Why are SS20 shock absorbers the best choice for the ŠKODA Rapid?
Brand SS20 (part of the group Sach-Fichtel & Sachs) specializes in the production of suspension components for European cars, including VW Group, which includes ŠKODA. The advantages of their shock absorbers for Rapid:
- 🔧 100% compatibility with original seats - no modification of mounts or adapters required.
- 📉 Improved Damping Capacity compared to stock shock absorbers (15–20% better absorption of small irregularities).
- 🛡️ Enhanced corrosion protection — two-layer coating of the stem and body (unlike many budget analogues).
- 💰 Price is 30–40% lowerthan original spare parts ŠKODA (for example, a set of front struts will cost 8–12 thousand rubles versus 18–22 thousand for the original).
Important: SS20 offers two lines of shock absorbers for Rapid — Comfort (soft, for city driving) and Sport (tough, for dynamic driving). The first ones are more often chosen by owners Rapid 1.6 MPI, the second are those who ride 1.4 TSI or 1.8 TSI with lowered suspension. Read more about the differences in the next section.
⚠️ Attention: On ŠKODA Rapid after 2017 (facelift), shock absorbers were installed with a modified mounting of the upper support. Upon purchase SS20 check with the seller whether the model is suitable for your VIN code - otherwise you risk getting racks with an incompatible rod diameter (18 mm instead of 20 mm).
Comparison of SS20 models for ŠKODA Rapid: Comfort vs Sport
Choice between SS20 Comfort and SS20 Sport depends on your driving style and road conditions in your area. Below are the key differences:
| Parameter | SS20 Comfort |
SS20 Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Soft (25% softer than stock) | Hard (15% harder than stock) |
| Recommended riding style | City, bad roads, family use | Sports driving, highway, lowered suspension |
| Service life | 80–100 thousand km | 60–80 thousand km (due to increased loads) |
| Articles for Rapid (front) | SS20-100567 (NH1), SS20-100612 (NH3) |
SS20-100568 (NH1), SS20-100613 (NH3) |
| Price (set of 2 pcs.) | from 7,500 rub. | from 9,800 rub. |
Note: For rear axle Rapid SS20 offers a universal model SS20-100569 (Comfort) and SS20-100570 (Sport). Rear shock absorbers are less critical to stiffness, which is why many owners choose Comfort even for sporty driving.
- Original (ŠKODA/VW)
- SS20 Comfort
- SS20 Sport
- Other brand (specify in comments)
- I don't know
Article numbers and compatibility: how not to make a mistake when purchasing?
One of the most frequently asked questions from owners Rapid - “What article SS20 will it fit my car? The answer depends on generations, body type (liftback or hatchback) and year of manufacture. Below are the current articles for 2026:
- 🚗 Rapid NH1 (2012–2017):
- Front:
SS20-100567(Comfort) /SS20-100568(Sport) - Rear:
SS20-100569(Comfort) /SS20-100570(Sport)
- Front:
- 🚗 Rapid NH3 (2017–present, facelift):
- Front:
SS20-100612(Comfort) /SS20-100613(Sport) - Rear:
SS20-100569(universal)
- Front:
Important: For vehicles with Sportline package or lowered suspension (Eibach Pro-Kit, H&R) are recommended only SS20 Sport — Comfort can “sag” after 20–30 thousand km.
How to check the originality of SS20?
The box should have a hologram sticker with a serial number that matches the engraving on the shock absorber body. Also check for logo SS20 on the boot and the inscription "Made in Germany" (not "Assembled in...").
⚠️ Attention: There are often fakes on the market SS20 under the articlesSS20-100567andSS20-100612. You can distinguish them by the quality of the welds (the original ones are smooth, without sagging) and weight - counterfeit ones are usually 150–200 grams lighter.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing SS20 shock absorbers on a ŠKODA Rapid
Replacing front or rear shock absorbers with Rapid takes 2–3 hours (if you have the tools) and does not require special skills. However, there are nuances that are often missed even in services. For example, Improper tightening of the upper support can lead to play in the steering wheel after 500 km.
Spring remover (required!)|Socket wrenches for 13, 16, 18|Torque wrench (for tightening with a torque of 40–50 Nm)|New boots and bumpers (even if the old ones are “normal”)|WD-40 or equivalent for stuck bolts-->
Work order (using the example of front shock absorbers):
Remove the wheel, unscrew the two bolts securing the strut to the hub (the key is on
18).Open the hood, remove the plastic cover over the glass and unscrew the rod nut (you will need to hold the rod with a wrench
6).Remove the strut, clamp it into the spring extractor and compress the spring until the upper support is released.
Replace the shock absorber with a new one SS20, transfer all the parts (spring, support, boot) from the old rack.
Reassemble in reverse order tightening the rod nut only after installing the strut on the vehicle (otherwise the spring will be skewed).
Critical moment: tightening the upper support must be done with force 40 Nm (for Rapid NH1) or 45 Nm (for NH3). Exceeding this value leads to deformation of the rubber bushings and knocking when turning.
Before installing new shock absorbers SS20 pump them 3–5 times (compress and unclench the rod until it stops). This will remove air from the working chamber and prevent “dips” during the first kilometers of driving.
Typical problems after replacement and how to avoid them
Even after correct installation of shock absorbers SS20 owners ŠKODA Rapid sometimes encounter unexpected problems. Here are the most common ones and how to solve them:
- 🔊 Knock in the front suspension on small bumps:
- Cause: Loose rod nut or worn lever silent blocks.
- Solution: Tighten the nut with a torque wrench and check for play in the arms.
- 🚗 The car “nods off” when braking:
- Reason: Shock absorbers installed
SS20 Comfortfor a car with a heavy engine (1.8 TSI). - Solution: Replace with
SS20 Sportor add anti-roll bars.
- Reason: Shock absorbers installed
- 💨 Oil leakage from the shock absorber after 10–20 thousand km:
- Reason: Defective oil seal or overheating (for example, when driving off-road).
- Solution: Contact the warranty (from SS20 it is 2 years or 50 thousand km).
Pay special attention rear shock absorbers: on Rapid they are often the first to “die” due to trunk overload. If you notice that the car is swaying at speeds of 80+ km/h, check the rear suspension - even if the shock absorbers visually look intact.
After replacing shock absorbers necessarily do a wheel alignment. Even a small change in suspension height (by 5–10 mm) leads to accelerated tire wear.
Owner reviews: real experience of using SS20 on a ŠKODA Rapid
To objectively evaluate shock absorbers SS20, we analyzed reviews from the forums SkodaClub.ru, Drive2 and Auto.ru. Here are the key takeaways:
| Model SS20 | Pros (according to reviews) | Cons (according to reviews) | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|
SS20-100567 (Comfort, NH1) |
Softness, no knocking, long service life (up to 100 thousand km) | At a speed of 120+ km/h it “floats” a little on the highway | 4.7 |
SS20-100613 (Sport, NH3) |
Clear handling, no roll in corners | A bit harsh for city potholes, can “punch” at asphalt joints | 4.5 |
SS20-100569 (Comfort, rear) |
Versatility, low price, quiet operation | Rarely found in stores (often made to order) | 4.8 |
Fun fact: Owners Rapid 1.4 TSI with box DSG-7 note that after installation SS20 Sport The smoothness of switching has improved - less vibration is transmitted to the body, and the mechatronics works more stable.
The most frequently mentioned negative aspects are:
- 📦 Long delivery (some items can take up to 2 weeks to order).
- 🔧 Difficulties with warranty (you need to keep the receipt and packaging).
- 💧 Condensation on the rod in the first days after installation (it is normal if it disappears after 1–2 weeks).
SS20 Alternatives: Comparison with Other Brands
If for some reason the shock absorbers SS20 are not suitable for you (for example, out of stock or not satisfied with the stiffness), consider alternatives. We compared them based on key parameters:
| Brand | Average price (set) | Service life | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| SS20 | 8,000–12,000 rub. | 80–100 thousand km | Optimal price/quality ratio, soft and sporty versions |
| Boge | 10,000–14,000 rub. | 90–110 thousand km | Tougher than SS20 Comfort, but more reliable on the highway |
| Monroe | 7,000–9,000 rub. | 60–80 thousand km | Budget option, but often leaks after 50 thousand km |
| Kayaba (KYB) | 12,000–16,000 rub. | 100–120 thousand km | The best choice for aggressive driving, but more expensive |
Conclusion: SS20 - the gold standard for ŠKODA Rapid in terms of price/quality ratio. Boge and KYB suitable for those who are willing to overpay for a resource, and Monroe - a temporary solution with a limited budget.
If you drive mainly around the city, SS20 Comfort is the best choice. For the track and dynamic driving, give preference Boge or KYB.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about SS20 shock absorbers for ŠKODA Rapid
Is it possible to install the SS20 Sport on a Rapid with factory suspension?
Yes, but keep in mind that the hardness will increase by 15–20%. If you have Rapid 1.6 MPI with soft springs, it is better to choose SS20 Comfort - otherwise you risk getting “shaking” on small irregularities. For 1.4 TSI and 1.8 TSI Sport will fit perfectly.
Do I need to change the springs along with the SS20 shock absorbers?
Not necessary if the springs do not have cracks or subsidence. However, if the car's mileage is more than 150 thousand km, we recommend replacing them together - new shock absorbers will last longer. Popular choice for Rapid: springs Lesjofors or Eibach Pro-Kit (if you want an understatement).
How often should SS20 shock absorbers be checked?
Every 20 thousand km or once a year (whichever comes first). Pay attention to:
- Oil stains on the body.
- Knocks when passing speed bumps.
- Increased braking distance (over 10% of normal).
Can I install the SS20 myself without a spring remover?
No! Suspension springs ŠKODA Rapid are under high voltage, and attempting to compress them without a puller can result in injury. If you don’t have the tool, contact the service department - the cost of replacing shock absorbers is 2-3 thousand rubles. for the axle.
Which is better: SS20 or original ŠKODA shock absorbers?
In terms of reliability and service life, they are comparable, but SS20 have two key advantages:
- The price is 40–50% lower.
- The line has sports versions that the original does not have.
You should choose the original only if “original” softness or a car under warranty is critically important to you.