Mountain grades and tight curves impose sustained lateral and vertical loading on shocks. Continuous braking on descents heats and stresses shock fluid, accelerating degradation. Potholes and frost heave damage from spring freeze-thaw cycles create impact loads that wear out shocks in 40,000-60,000 km versus normal 80,000-100,000 km. Thin air at elevation also reduces shock cooling efficiency.

Warning signs include: soft, bouncy ride after bumps; increased body roll on curves; nose diving during braking; clunking sounds over bumps; uneven tire wear; or visible leaks from shocks/struts. Any of these indicate suspension wear that compromises mountain driving safety. Don't delay suspension service; degraded shocks reduce brake control and increase accident risk on mountain roads.

Road salt accelerates corrosion of suspension control arms, ball joints, tie rods, and brackets. Freeze-thaw cycling compounds corrosion by creating cracks in protective coatings where salt enters. Moisture and cold temperature slow rust healing. Undercarriage washing every 2-4 weeks during winter and annual undercoating significantly extend suspension life by preventing salt penetration to metal surfaces.

Performance suspension upgrades (coilovers, stiffer springs, upgraded shocks) can improve mountain handling and reduce body roll on curves. However, quality matters; cheap upgrades reduce ride comfort and accelerate tire wear. Consult a suspension specialist familiar with mountain driving to optimize your specific vehicle. Stock suspension is adequate if properly maintained; upgrades enhance performance but add cost.

Elevation doesn't directly affect suspension geometry, but extreme cold at altitude increases fluid viscosity in shock absorbers, making them slightly stiffer until warmed. This is intentional (helps stability in cold). Mountain altitude does nothing to suspension angles, but altitude-induced lean-burn engine operation may mask suspension problems until you descend to lower elevation and feel the true extent of wear.