🚗 Classic Fault — Mercedes-Benz (1968–1976)
W114 front shock absorber failure
💰 Estimated Repair Cost
$80 – $250 GBP
Parts and labour estimate
🔧 Tools Required
Spring compressor
📋 Overview
The double-wishbone front suspension shock absorbers on the W114 lose damping with age and mileage.
🩺 Symptoms
- Bouncy ride
- car dives heavily under braking
- wallow over crests
- poor straight line stability at speed
🔍 Possible Causes
- Worn shock absorber
- broken spring
- worn top mount
🛠️ Diagnosis Steps
Bounce test each corner — car should stop within 1.5 cycles. Inspect shocks for oil leaks on body
✅ Most Confirmed Fix
Shock absorber replacement, ideally all four
81% of users confirm this fix worked (19 reports)
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