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Step 1
Knowing the functions of springs and shocks in the car is the first step to diagnosing what might be wrong. Simply put, shocks prevent the vehicle from bouncing up and down. Springs hold the vehicles weight.
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Step 2
To see if your shocks are bad, turn your vehicle off (if it isn't already) and place it in "Park." Place your weight on the bumper, and release. If the vehicle bounces up and down more than one and a half to two times, the shocks need to be replaced. If you are able to visually inspect your shocks from underneath the vehicle, look for oil leaking in the area where the shaft moves - this is another indication that the shocks need to be replaced.
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Step 3
A visual inspection is all that is needed for your springs. If the car looks "low", and is frequently bottoming out when it should not be, then it is likely that the springs need to be replaced.
