This paper analyses changes in the values of the damping coefficient of shock absorbers, depending on the size and distribution of loads in passenger vehicles. The tests were conducted in two stages. During the first stage, the influence of the size of a load in vehicles, and changes in tyre pressure values on the damping coefficient of shock absorbers was defined. During the second stage, the influence of the changes of the damping coefficient of shock absorbers was researched, depending on the size and distribution of load in passenger vehicles with various suspension systems of front and rear axles, different kerb weights, lengths and wheel bases. Eight variants of load distribution in vehicles were tested. The evaluation of the damping coefficient of shock absorbers was conducted with the EUSAMA method. This paper identified the sizes and distribution of loads in vehicles of varied structural parameters and tyre pressures on the damping coefficient values of shock absorbers. The test results indicate that when using a vehicle under varied load conditions, there are changes in the damping coefficient of shock absorbers. This may translate directly into traction characteristics and stability of a vehicle while travelling, and this, in turn, is connected with the vehicle's safety. This paper shows the considerable influence of tyre pressure on the EUSAMA coefficient. The changes in vehicle loads also influenced the values of the damping coefficient of shock absorbers. The changes in the damping coefficient of shock absorbers were also influenced by the size and distribution of loads in vehicles.