Signs of Bad RV Shocks (and How Often to Replace Them)

Motorhome shocks wear out gradually, so most owners don't notice until the coach is clearly wallowing. Here's how to tell whether yours are done, and when to plan to replace them.

Seven signs your RV shocks are worn

1. Bouncing after bumps. The coach goes up and down two or three times after a dip instead of settling once.
2. Body roll and sway. Heavy lean in turns, on ramps and in crosswinds.
3. Truck push. The coach gets shoved sideways when a semi passes.
4. Nose-dive when braking and squat when accelerating.
5. Leaking oil. A wet, grimy shock body means the seal has failed.
6. Damage. Dented bodies, bent rods, or broken or missing bushings.
7. Cupped tire wear. Scalloped patches on the tread, often on the front tires.

A quick check you can do at the campground

• Look at each shock with a flashlight for oil, dents and cracked rubber bushings.
• Shake each shock by hand with the coach on its wheels. Any clunk or play at the mounts means the bushings are worn.
• Drive over a speed bump at walking pace. More than one rebound means the shocks are past their best.

The classic "push on the bumper" bounce test doesn't work on a heavy motorhome. You can't move it enough to tell anything.

How often should you replace motorhome shocks?

There's no fixed interval, but a practical guideline is:

• About every 50,000 miles, or sooner if you often drive rough roads or run near your weight rating.
• About every 7-10 years on low-mileage coaches. Seals and bushings age even when the coach is parked.
• Immediately if one is leaking or damaged. Replace both shocks on that axle.

Choosing replacements

Buy shocks made for your chassis. Bilstein B6 motorhome shocks are available for:

• Ford F-53
• Workhorse
• Ford E-Series Class C
• Chevy Express/Savana
• Freightliner XC
• Spartan
• Monaco Roadmaster

FAQ

Can bad shocks cause an RV to sway?

Yes. Worn shocks are one of the most common causes of sway. Sway bars, steering wear and tire pressure also play a part.

Should I replace all four shocks?

Yes, ideally. At a minimum, replace both shocks on an axle together.

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