Do rear shocks leak oil?
A shock absorber or strut consists of one or more pistons that flow through a thick oil as the wheel to which it’s attached moves up and down. The seals can become brittle or torn, allowing fluid to leak out; after some fluid (about ten percent of the total) is lost the shock loses its ability to absorb energy.
How serious is a leaking strut?
Your car should always be steady and stable. When your struts are leaking this will cause the car’s stability to be off kilter due to the lack of hydraulic fluid that absorbs bumps and turns which can cause the vehicle to roll or be thrown off the road.
Why is oil leaking from my shock strut?
Every strut and shock contains oil. Over time the shock’s piston seal can wear slightly, allowing some oil to “weep” past the piston seal. This leaking strut or shock will have a small moist area on the exterior of the unit down from the piston seal area.
Is it normal for Spring Mount shocks to leak?
On some models, the GX470 in particular, a small amount (1-2″) of condensation/mild wetness at the top of the strut body is 100% normal. If a strut appears to be starting to leak but hasn’t reach the bottom of the spring mount or shock itself, we typically recommend the guest return in a few thousands miles to recheck the suspect part.
Why are the shocks on my Toyota Prius leaking oil?
A repair shop noticed that the rear shocks on our Prius are leaking a little oil. They said shocks are not supposed to leak any oil and that it’s a sign that the shocks are failing. The Toyota dealership then took a look at them, and said that it is normal for shocks to leak a little oil.
When do shocks and shock absorbers need to be replaced?
The most common problem with shocks and struts is when they start leaking. See these photos: leaking front strut and leaking rear shock absorber. Struts and shock absorbers are filled with oil.
Every strut and shock contains oil. Over time the shock’s piston seal can wear slightly, allowing some oil to “weep” past the piston seal. This leaking strut or shock will have a small moist area on the exterior of the unit down from the piston seal area.
On some models, the GX470 in particular, a small amount (1-2″) of condensation/mild wetness at the top of the strut body is 100% normal. If a strut appears to be starting to leak but hasn’t reach the bottom of the spring mount or shock itself, we typically recommend the guest return in a few thousands miles to recheck the suspect part.
When to replace a leaking strut on a car?
July 6, 2016, 1:33am #2 A leaking strut is either no longer functioning or will stop functioning soon. It is a safety and handling issue. Struts should be replaced by pairs and at 110K miles the best bet would be to do new struts and/or shocks on all 4 wheels.
Is it normal to have oil on top of strut?
While I don’t necessarily agree with the premise, Subaru of America (the corporate parent) states that a slight amount of oil residue around the top of the strut cartridge is normal and acceptable. (This does not mean leakage to the point where it’s running down the side of the strut.)