This is not a scientific test and is somewhat subjective. But it can be helpful when taken in conjunction with other checks made. Stand in front of the car and carefully place your foot on the bumper, or your knee on a surface that won't dent or bend; it doesn't have to be in the centre. Shift your weight onto that point, pushing the car down. Then quickly remove your foot or weight. The car should bounce up and return to its original position rather stiffly, without continuing to bounce. If it bounces more than a couple of times, this is an indication that perhaps the shock absorbers are weak.