New Shocks Struts?

[Glenda B]

I just purchased a 2000 Beetle, Turbo..144000 miles on it. I am wondering how you know when you need new shocks and struts,it seems like when I go over a bump in the road it hits hard, like I can feel all the bumps and cracks...does this mean new shocks and struts or is this from the type of tires that are on it?
Thanks

[70autostick]

Rock the fenders,if she bounces back and forth in a quick manner,new struts & shocks,if she rides hard,sits lower (less wheel gap),your probably in need of a new set.

If you got 3" of wheel gap,stiff,no wavy bouce,your prolly fine.

I go slow over bumps

[ECS Tuning]

Originally Posted by 70autostick

Rock the fenders,if she bounces back and forth in a quick manner,new struts & shocks,if she rides hard,sits lower (less wheel gap),your probably in need of a new set.

If you got 3" of wheel gap,stiff,no wavy bouce,your prolly fine.

I go slow over bumps

x2

There are quite a few things that could result in a somewhat harsh ride. If you are using 18" wheels with low profile tires, that could contribute to things. If the suspension was upgraded or changed out to a sport suspension (OEM or aftermarket), that could also cause the ride to be firm. If the shocks are the stock units and totally worn out, it could be bottoming out and hitting the bump stops which would make the ride quite harsh.

As stated above, if you shake the car with your hands, it should be firm and not bounce around all over the place. If it does, then a set of replacement shocks should probably help smooth things out.

Volkswagen New Beetle 1.8T > Suspension > Shocks

[Glenda B]

Thanks so much,I will get this checked out. Maybe I will not need new ones.

[simonsi]

Originally Posted by Glenda B

I just purchased a 2000 Beetle, Turbo..144000 miles on it. I am wondering how you know when you need new shocks and struts

Regardless of whether they are considered "failed", you will undoubtedly feel a better ride and be safer in corners and under braking with new struts and shocks vs 144k ones...