If you’re getting ready for a WOF in Hamilton, or you’ve noticed your car handling a bit rough over Victoria Street potholes, this one’s for you. Mono-tube shocks are a big deal, especially with all the stop-start on Te Rapa straight and the ever-changing weather we get in the Waikato. Here’s a straight-up, real-world guide to mono-tube shock replacement – the sort of thing we’re talking about with locals every week at Grimmer Motors.
1. Getting Your Shocks Checked – The First Step
We get all sorts through the door – Toyotas up from Cambridge, Hyundais from Ngaruawahia, the odd Volvo XC90 or Subaru Forester that’s done one too many laps around Rototuna. First thing we do? A close look at your suspension. Our techs check for leaks, cracking, any weird noises or loose bits. Sometimes, the shocks are spilling oil or just totally knackered from years of bouncing over speed bumps in Flagstaff. If there’s wear, we’ll spot it. It’s not just about ticking the WOF checklist – it’s your safety, plain and simple. Here’s what we look for.
More on our safety checks here.
2. Picking the Right Mono-Tube Shocks
Once it’s time to swap, you want something that’ll last – not just cope with the Hamilton rat runs, but handle those road trips to Morrinsville or Raglan too. Mono-tube shocks are often the top pick: better cooling and performance, especially if you’re pushing a Euro number like a Peugeot 308 or a Honda hybrid. Our service advisors are always happy to help pick the right gear for your ride and how you drive. No sales jargon – just honest advice on what’ll keep you feeling steady through Dinsdale roundabouts and Hamilton East back streets.Why mono-tube?
3. Fitting Them Right – No Shortcuts
Getting shocks in properly is everything. We see some DIY jobs in the workshop – Audi A4s or Suzuki Swifts with shocks barely done up, or stuff put on backwards. Not ideal. Our techs use proper gear, torque everything to spec, and line it all up spot-on. Means better handling and no nasty surprises next time you’re braking hard at those lights by Chartwell. Shocks that are fitted right make a real difference – keeps the car solid, and the WOF inspector happy too.
Read more on installations here.
4. Post-Fit Checks – How’s It Actually Driving?
We don’t just slap them on and send you out. Every time we finish, we take the car for a decent run – sometimes out by Avalon Drive, sometimes down towards Glenview. Listening for knocks, making sure there’s no crazy bouncing or sagging. That way, you know it’ll be right, and you’re not guessing next time you’re heading into a foggy winter morning on SH1. Our tests follow all the proper WOF Hamilton standards.See our post-job checks
5. Full WOF Prep – More Than Just Shocks
While you’re here, why not get the rest sorted? We’ll have a look at your brakes, tyres, lights, seatbelts – whole lot. We get everything WOF-ready so you can hit the road feeling sweet, whether it’s for work in Tamahere or the school run out in Hillcrest. What’s in the WOF?
Why go with Grimmer Motors for your shock replacement or WOF in Hamilton? We care about keeping locals safe and getting things right first time. Experienced techs, top quality gear, honest advice, and a focus on what actually works here in the Waikato. Drop in sometime and see how proper service feels.