Car Character and Shock Absorbers 2 (Suzuki Lapin CBA-HE22S, Ride Comfort Improvement)

The Suzuki Lapin, reaching its third vehicle inspection, has just exceeded 60,000 kilometers in mileage.
2009 model CBA-HE22S K6A turbo CVT Mileage: 61,000km

Shock absorbers are said to lose their functionality after approximately 50,000 kilometers. You can feel this through the deterioration in ride comfort, but it’s rare for them to be replaced at that distance. In most cases, they continue to be used unless there’s oil leakage or a significant deterioration in ride comfort.

This time, at the customer’s request, we decided to check the condition of the absorbers at the time of the vehicle inspection, which is said to be the replacement period, and install KYB NewSR Specials with slightly higher damping force.

We’re also looking forward to seeing how they match with the REGNO Leggera tires that were newly fitted two months ago.

The standard equipment on the Lapin was a KYB product with a black shell case.

The blue SR Special we’re replacing it with often has a thicker case than the standard equipment, but this time, the thickness and length seem to be the same. Since it’s a turbo model, perhaps it was originally equipped with a more robust one.

Whenever possible, I like to have customers feel the individual old and new shock absorbers. The firmness and rebound force of the new rod. I think that by feeling the response, you can better experience the change in ride comfort.

There were no visible abnormalities in both the front and rear, but the rear shock absorbers had severe gas leakage, and once compressed by hand, it takes a considerable amount of time to return. It almost looks as if it’s stopped. Since family members were riding in the back seats, the behavior must have been unstable.

Of course, we also replace the upper mounts at the same time.

The blue case slightly visible from the rear is a sign of stability.

I think slightly firmer suspension suits compact kei cars well. It will nimbly navigate the narrow alleys of Kyoto. And occasionally, try driving on the highway. You should experience a stability you’ve never felt before.

I look forward to hearing your feedback later. Thank you very much for entrusting us with this work.