Reading
Reading, a vibrant town in the UK, is home to a population of over 200,000. Known for its bustling atmosphere and thriving community, Reading also boasts a thriving car maintenance industry.
The most popular cars in Reading
After analyzing recent data, we have identified the most popular cars among Reading residents. Topping the list is the Ford Fiesta, a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle that perfectly suits the needs of many Reading drivers. Following closely behind are the Volkswagen Golf, Vauxhall Corsa, BMW 1 Series, and Audi A3.
It is interesting to note that Reading residents prefer compact and economical cars, reflecting the town's urban environment and the need for easy maneuverability in busy streets and limited parking spaces.
Vehicle numbers in Reading
Reading boasts a significant number of registered vehicles, with approximately 150,000 cars on its roads. This high number reflects the town's reliance on private transportation and the demand for reliable car maintenance services.
Postcodes and suburbs in Reading
Reading is divided into various postcodes and suburbs, each with its own unique character. Some notable areas include RG1 (Reading Town Centre, Newtown, and Katesgrove), RG2 (Whitley, South Reading, and Green Park), RG6 (Earley, Lower Earley, and Shinfield), and RG30 (Tilehurst, Southcote, and Calcot). These diverse neighborhoods contribute to the vibrant automotive landscape of Reading.
Connecting Reading residents with top-notch car maintenance services
As a car maintenance platform catering to the needs of Reading residents, we understand the importance of providing exceptional services to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Whether it's regular servicing, MOT testing, or repairs, our platform connects car owners with trusted professionals who are well-versed in the specific requirements of Reading's automotive landscape.
With our extensive network of skilled mechanics and garages across the town, we ensure that Reading residents have access to reliable and efficient car maintenance services. Our platform also offers the convenience of online booking and transparent pricing, making it easier than ever for Reading drivers to take care of their beloved vehicles.
At our car maintenance platform, we are committed to keeping Reading's cars in optimal condition, ensuring that residents can navigate the town's streets with confidence and peace of mind.
Front shock absorber replacement
What does a front shock absorber do?
Your shock absorbers are part of the suspension system that smoothes out the bumpiness of an uneven road to provide you with a comfortable ride.
A shock absorber is a gas or oil filled tube that is compressed by a piston to dissipate kinetic energy and regulate the rebounding your car will suffer when driving over potholed, bumpy or uneven ground.
What happens when we replace your shock absorbers?
Our efficient and fully qualified mechanics will examine or test-drive your car to establish the cause of the problem.
Wherever required, a shock absorber will be replaced, and you’ll be advised of any other connected or associated problems arising from its malfunction.
You will also be advised of any other parts that may need to be replaced for the best operation and health of your vehicle.
Once the faulty shock absorber has been replaced, our mechanics will test it thoroughly to ensure the correct running of the new part and make any adjustments required for its premium operation.
What causes a shock absorber to stop working correctly?
A shock absorber will fail to operate correctly if the fluid leaks. This can be due to poor or damaged seals.
A shock absorber will also fail to function properly if it becomes damaged, bent or broken due to continual wear, general use or accident damage.
Smaller internal parts are likely to wear out in time and cause the improper operation of the complete component.
Symptoms of a malfunctioning front shock absorber
Excessive bouncing and an uncomfortable ride
If your car is bouncing excessively and providing uncomfortable ride quality, then there’s a good chance your shock absorbers aren’t operating correctly.
The car feels unstable
When driving around corners or over uneven ground and the car feels unstable then your suspension could be damaged.
Driving over humps is difficult
If driving over humps, sleeping policemen or raised road elements causes problems, your shock absorbers could be damaged.
If you spot signs of leaking
If you notice puddles of oil-like fluid on the road around your wheels, your shock absorbers could be leaking.
If your wheels leave the ground
In circumstances when your tyres lose contact with the road going over bumpy surfaces, sharp bridges or raised ground, your suspension isn’t working properly.
How often should shock absorbers need replacing?
You can expect shock absorbers to last at least 50k miles. Your owner’s manual may specify a different mileage or duration, as this figure is only a guideline. You should also have your shock absorbers checked after heavy contact with potholes, curbs or large rocks in the road.
The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT
Car suspension is a common reason for MOT failures. Broken or faulty shock absorbers, including oil leaks, will be a definite fail for an MOT.
The cost of replacing your front shock absorber
The typical cost of replacing a condenser varies between £200 and £250.
For example, an Audi A1 S Line would have a dealer price of £255.23, yet Fixter will carry out the same work for only £206—a 19% saving!
Changing the front shock absorber in a Fiat 500l Pop Star will cost you £268.06 with your dealer, but only £216.00 with Fixter—another superb saving of 19%!
When you choose Fixter to find you a great deal and a premium mechanic to carry out your front shock absorber replacement, you can expect to save around £40 from an average dealer price. That’s a typical saving in the region of 15–20%.