The best way to determine if your shock absorbers are worn and whether your car is safe to drive, is by a visit to a mechanic workshop. Smeaton Grange car service APR Mechanical provides a FREE 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report with every car service and can quickly identify if your shocks absorbers need to be replaced, as well as identify any other malfunctioning mechanic components of your car.
As a precaution, check for the following indicators of excessive shock absorber wear
• tyres worn unevenly: if your tyre wear is uneven, especially with bald patches
• car is sliding to sides: if your car veers in side winds, even with mild gusts
• car swerves and nosedives: if your car's bonnet dips when stopping, or the car swerves when braking
• car shaking or rattling: if uneven road causes the vehicle to bump, jump and lose tyre contact with the road
• trouble stopping: if car takes longer to stop and your braking distance is increased

Uneven tyre wear is a sure sign you need your car looked at at a professional car service to identify whether the cause is wear of shock absorbers, or your car is in a need for a wheel alignment or more serious servicing. Also, worn mounts and rubber, sagging springs or unusual noise when operating your car could indicate shock absorber damage and need for a service. Naturally, leaking fluid from shock absorbers is a clear indicator that your shock absorbers need some professional attention.