Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Struts or Shock Absorbers Leak

1. Fully extend the strut (wheels unsupported) in order to expose the seal cover area for inspection.
2. Look for signs of leaks in the seal cover area:
- A slight trace of fluid is not a cause for replacement.
- The seal permits some seepage to lubricate the piston rod.
- A built-in fluid reserve allows for seepage.
3. You can easily locate a leaking strut damper/shock because of the fluid around the seal cover and because of an excessive amount of fluid on the strut.
4. Replace a leaking strut.