Outlander 2007 mk II should I change these shock absorbers?

2007 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER
156,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4WD • MANUAL • DIESEL
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DEX_1
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the shop said the shock absorbers need to be replaced, from what I see they look ok, can someone share their experience pls.

Maybe they just wanted to charge me looks like they are good, the car has around 156k km im the 2nd owner, not sure if/when they were changed before, I have the car for around 3-4 years.
I drove the car over speed bumps nothing unusual.

There is a small draw (unstable) at high speeds when turning but really like sharp turns.
Sep 7, 2026 at 5:06 AM
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STRAILER
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From the photographs, the rear shock absorbers look dry—I do not see obvious oil leakage, broken mounts, or physical damage. However, a shock can be internally worn without leaking, so appearance alone cannot confirm that it is good. I would do a one knee test which this guide can show you how to do.

https://2carpros.com/articles/checking-shocks-and-struts/

Most of the time the OEM shocks are best, but they might be worn out due to the mileage.
Sep 8, 2026 at 9:28 AM
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DEX_1
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Thanks a lot for the help!
I tried the bounce test by literally sitting down on the rear seat/trunk and releasing it, the car rose up smoothly and stopped immediately without any bouncing. It also feels stable over speed bumps.

It does feel a bit floaty or unstable when turning or overtaking at higher speeds, but I'm thinking that might just be normal body roll for a high riding SUV?

That's why I was so surprised when a shop mechanic looked at them for just 2 minutes from the pit and claimed they urgently needed replacement. Based on your input and the test, maybe its best that I'll hold off on changing them?
Sep 8, 2026 at 12:20 PM
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STRAILER
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If they passed the bounce and are not leaking test I would leave them.
Sep 10, 2026 at 7:07 AM
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DEX_1
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yesterday I visited a shop where they have a special machine for absorbers testing, front ones at 99%, back ones at 95% no leakage what so ever, no idea why that other shop suggested a change...

thanks again for your help to confirm my doubt and get a 2nd opinion :)
Sep 11, 2026 at 10:37 PM
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STRAILER
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Yep Yep we got you covered, visit us anytime, we are here to help.
Sep 12, 2026 at 9:04 AM
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