The hidden link between suspension wear and fuel consumption

Fuel prices are always on drivers’ minds in the UK. With petrol hovering between £1.49 and £1.58 per litre in early 2025 (source: ONS), even small changes in fuel consumption can add up quickly. Yet there’s one hidden culprit behind rising fuel bills that most motorists overlook — worn shock absorbers.

They don’t just affect ride comfort. When your suspension isn’t working properly, it can quietly eat into your car’s fuel economy, especially in small, everyday vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, and Renault Clio.

Why shock absorbers matter for fuel efficiency

Shock absorbers are essential for keeping your tyres in contact with the road. When they wear out, that connection weakens. The result? The car bounces more, loses grip, and transfers more energy into unnecessary motion.

Estimated contribution of different factors to reduced fuel efficiency. Suspension condition accounts for a meaningful share.

That may not sound like much — but over time, it leads to:

• Uneven tyre wear
• Increased rolling resistance
• More energy needed to keep the car stable

What the research says

A 2024 study by Autocare Network UK found that cars with faulty suspension systems used, on average, 6% more fuel than those in good condition.

That’s roughly 36 extra litres of petrol per year for the average British driver covering 8,000 miles annually. At current prices, that could mean an extra £55 to £60 added to your yearly fuel bill — just from worn suspension parts.

Meanwhile, an AA technical report (2023) highlighted that suspension problems account for over 14% of mechanical defects discovered during pre-MOT checks. In older hatchbacks and compact family cars, neglected suspension components were linked to premature tyre wear and reduced braking performance.

Small cars feel it more

Smaller hatchbacks are especially vulnerable to suspension-related fuel losses. These cars rely on tight handling and light weight to achieve good mileage. But worn dampers disrupt that balance. When cornering, braking, or driving on uneven roads, poor suspension forces the engine to compensate — and fuel economy suffers.

According to a 2023 RAC breakdown review, suspension faults were one of the top five mechanical issues reported by drivers of compact cars under 1.4L engines.

How to spot worn shocks before they cost you more

Many drivers miss the signs of a failing shock absorber because the symptoms develop slowly. But over time, they become more obvious. According to AUTODOC, symptoms of a faulty shock absorber may include poor traction, excessive body roll when braking, and increased braking distances.

If left unchecked, bad shocks can even affect braking safety and tyre lifespan — turning a minor issue into a costly one.

Listen to your car

Sound can also be a strong warning sign. AUTODOC specialists warn: If you have a broken or worn shock absorber, you may hear a clunking, banging, or rattling sound, particularly when driving over bumps, potholes, or rough terrain.

These noises often come from loose internal parts inside the damper or poor connections with the car’s suspension arm. If you hear them, don’t ignore it.

When should shocks be replaced?

While shock absorbers don’t have a fixed replacement schedule like oil filters or brake pads, most mechanics recommend checking them every 20,000 miles and considering replacement around 50,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving style and road conditions.

According to Kwik Fit UK, most shock absorber issues are found in vehicles between 6 and 9 years old, especially if driven regularly on uneven roads or in cities with poor road surfaces.

It’s not just about comfort

Many people think suspension maintenance is just about keeping the ride smooth. But it’s also about:

• Saving fuel
• Protecting tyres
• Reducing emergency braking distance
• Improving overall control in corners and wet conditions

And in the long run, that’s not just good for your wallet — it’s critical for your safety.

Final thoughts

Fuel is expensive. Car repairs aren’t cheap, either. But by keeping your suspension system in top condition — especially your shock absorbers — you can cut down fuel costs, extend tyre life, and drive with more confidence.

Next time you’re checking tyre pressures or topping up fluids, take a moment to think about what’s happening underneath your car. It might just save you more than you realise.

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