Gas shocks also quicken the response of a shock's movement, thereby increasing comfort and control. Under normal conditions, shocks and struts wear out gradually. However, many factors can affect how much wear is actually occurring and at what rate it is occurring. For example, two people buy the same vehicle new off the dealer lot - one lives in the city close to the office, and drives mostly on straight roads. The piston rod can easily be nicked or damaged by flying gravel allowing grit and dirt to damage the piston seal.
Many components contribute to handling.
Having your vehicle inspected if you experience any of the above signs is good preventive maintenance. How to Keep Your Wheels on the Road Car Care Council offers a pamphlet on ride control. Provided as a public service by Car Care Council and Gabriel Ride Control.