Braking efficiency determined using an accelerometer in the aspect of technical condition of shock absorber

This article presents results of tests of the effect exerted by technical condition of shock absorbers on the braking efficiency of an automotive vehicle. The tests were conducted using Fiat Seicento featuring front shock absorbers which enabled shock-absorbing fluid-level adjustment. The tests comprised measurements conducted on the shock absorbers in four states, i.e. the nominal state with the fluid level at 100%, with shock-absorbing fluid levels of 25%, 50% and 75% as well as with the fluid tank completely empty (0%). Road tests of braking efficiency were conducted on cobbled pavement by means of a decelerometer.