Big issue: Shocks? Unsure. Grand Am

[Julesy999]

Hi. new here.

I ahve a 94 Grand Am. 65000 on it, my grandfather had it, put on 13000 in 6 years, i've had it sine 2000.

I am broke and afraid to bring it in for fear of superexpensive repairs. But I feel like this is a big problem.

After the car has been idle for 8 hours or so (usually in the lot during work or overnight outside my apartment), when I am pulling out of my spot and hit the brakes, it stops violently and sinks down and back, towards the rear passenger side tire. Occassionally upon driving slow or idling for a second, it will shut down and I'll have to restart it (it's automatic).

I think the shocks are shot and something may be out of line. I have little automotive knowledge. But the fact that the car sinks so violently towards the rear right tire makes me nervous.

Any ideas of the issue? It's gonna be expensive, aint it?

Thanks.

[GTP Dad]

If it is a broken shock you can purchase a pair at Autozone for $28 give or take a few cents. They can be replaced with a few hand tools so as long as the springs are OK you should get off relatively cheap. Take care of this then we will discuss the problem with the stalling.

[Madcat455]

I'd jack up the RR tire and remove the brake drum to see if the Wheel cylinder is leaking. Usually damp brake pads (from cylinder seepage) will cause the pads to have "super grip" and really stop the car. Try it from a faster speed, and put more pressure on the brake to see if just that one wheel locks up.

It could be a shock, but I wouldn't think just one would go bad like that.... unless it's broken off of the mount. Not to mention that the car would continue bouncing.

Good way to test the shocks.... push down on the rear of the car.. keep it bouncing for a couple of seconds, then just let go.... The car should stop bouncing fairly quickly... if it seems to keep bouncing, then your shocks need replacement. Should'nt cost too much for rears... its the front struts that can get expensive.