The shock absorbing is done by the combination of the damper and the accumulator.

The accumulators hold a volume of gas to allow the dampers to push fluid somewhere when compressed, if one leaked and has little/no gas, it will not ride well as the fluid has nowhere to go. This will make the car ride unevenly.

If the damper is bad, it will cause a problem as you see, but as long as it is full of fluid, it should damp equal to a new one (at least close enough to not tell the difference).

I believe there are two dampers, look at the colored paint marks on the damper and ask the dealer which one you need. It is important to match the left/right damper for a proper ride, so if a matching one is not available you will need a pair.

If you find used, buy the pair.

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Gone to the dark side

- Jeff