Passo Sette Shocks

Unlike the standard 5-seater Passo, the Passo Sette is built on a stretched wheelbase designed to carry seven people. This means the shock absorbers have a much higher damping rate. At Ksh 6,500, getting a high-quality unit is essential because “cheap” standard Passo shocks will wear out in weeks under the weight of a Sette.

Importance

• Load Rating: At this price, you are often getting KYB Excel-G or original Ex-Japan units. These are nitrogen-gas charged to prevent the oil from foaming when the car is fully loaded and driving over speed bumps.

• Anti-Bottoming: The Sette has a long rear overhang. Worn shocks cause the rear to “bottom out” frequently. A 6,500/- premium unit provides the necessary resistance to keep the chassis away from the bump stops.

• Bushings: Quality units at this price point include reinforced rubber bushings that can handle the lateral stress of a 7-seater vehicle during cornering.

Symptoms of Failure in a Passo Sette

1. Rear Sagging: The car looks “tired” at the back even with no passengers.

2. The “Sway”: Because the Sette is long, dead shocks make the car feel like it’s “fishtailing” or swaying side-to-side on the highway.

3. Harsh Thumping: If you hear a loud “thud” every time you hit a small pothole, the gas charge in your shock has likely escaped, leaving you riding only on the springs.