Shock absorber failure on Vectra C

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Sun 27 Feb 2005 15:47
Shock absorber failure on Vectra C - Craggyislander
Hi guys

For a few days now I have noticed a distinct thump when going over potholes coming from the rear n/s of my 53 Vectra sxi. I did the usual of emptying the boot (not much in there anyway) and checking the parcel shelf was secure etc etc but the noise was still there.
Anyway,today I had a look underneath the car (its done 22k miles and is a Sept 2003 reg).
The n/s rear shock is covered in oil , whereas its counterpart on the other side is dry.

Ok so that explains the noise - looks like I need a new shock but could you chaps let me have your opinion on these points?

1. The car is now in year 2 of the 3 year warranty. The Vauxhall warranty specifically excludes shock absorbers in year 2 and 3. Personally I think its appalling that a part like this should give up after just over a year and a modest mileage...do you agree?

2. Is it worth calling Vauxhall customer services to ask them if they will cough up something towards the repair?


3. I know the standard advice is to change shocks in pairs - would that stand with my case? Would it be really necessary to change the other side too even though its currently showing no signs of leakage?

Thanks in advance
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Sun 27 Feb 2005 16:20
Shock absorber failure on Vectra C - mjm
Shockers don't usually pack up that quickly, but they are a "consumable" item, I would guess that you have been unlucky with this one. I suppose it is worth a chat with Vauxhall, you never know. If they are specifically excluded, though, you may not get anywhere.
Personally, I would change both. If one has failed, the other may not be far behind it, and it is sound practice to keep them balanced. The work they do is not appreciated until you try driving without them.
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Sun 27 Feb 2005 16:52
Shock absorber failure on Vectra C - Dynamic Dave
2. Is it worth calling Vauxhall customer services


Yes. The local Vaux garage did this on behalf of my Dad, who's power steering pump sprung a leak on his old mk3 Astra. Car had only done 25,000 miles in 3 yrs, and Vauxhall footed 75% of the bill, IIRC, even though it was well out of warranty. Vauxhall said although car was 3 yrs old, the pump shouldn't have failed with such a small amount of mileage covered.
3. I know the standard advice is to change shocks in pairs - would that stand with my case?


Chances are, they'll only replace the faulty one.
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Sun 27 Feb 2005 17:49
Shock absorber failure on Vectra C - Altea Ego
This is not a worn or aged shock absorber, this is a failed shock absorber. should be replaced under warranty
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Mon 28 Feb 2005 09:07
Shock absorber failure on Vectra C - Craggyislander
Ok - an update. The car is going in tomorrow to be fixed. I called Vauxhall Customer Services and they have said that the dealer will have to contact them tomorrow once they have ascertained the cause of failure.
Only then will they make a decision as to who pays what..

Will keep yas posted!
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Tue 1 Mar 2005 14:23
Shock absorber failure on Vectra C - Craggyislander
Result!
Garage have just called me - Vauxhall are meeting the cost of repair in full. (just for the faulty side). Happy with that result :o) and I have to say fair play to Vauxhall.
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