The symptoms of a malfunctioning shock absorber vary widely, the most common of which include:

1. Oil leakage. Use a flashlight to inspect the shock absorber through the wheel arch. If you notice visible oil leakage on the outside of the shock absorber, it indicates damage. This condition causes the lubricant inside the shock absorber to continuously drain, significantly reducing its damping effectiveness.

2. Loose chassis. Excessive jerking or wobbling when driving on bumpy roads is often a sign of a shock absorber problem. A damaged shock absorber can cause a loss of vehicle stability and increase driving risks.

3. Unusual noise. If the shock absorber makes an unusual noise while driving on bumpy roads, it is likely damaged. This noise may be caused by wear or damage to internal shock absorber components.

4. Uneven tire wear. A damaged shock absorber can cause the wheel to vibrate unevenly during driving, leading to wheel roll and other symptoms. This can cause the tire's contact area to wear more severely, while the uncontacted area remains unaffected, resulting in uneven tire wear. This uneven wear not only reduces tire lifespan but also affects vehicle stability and increases driving discomfort.

In summary, if your vehicle experiences any of the above conditions, it's recommended that the shock absorbers be inspected and repaired as soon as possible to ensure safe and comfortable driving.