Can I continue to use the rear shock absorber if it's leaking oil?
3 Answers
Whether to replace a leaking shock absorber depends on testing its performance. Slight oil seepage: Slight oil seepage manifests as a small amount of oil stains on the shock absorber, but it does not affect the vehicle's comfort and is no different from a normal shock absorber. This type of seepage can be ignored for the time being, but the leakage should be monitored frequently. More severe oil leakage: More severe oil leakage refers to a large amount of oil sludge on the shock absorber. Leaking oil will deteriorate the vehicle's shock absorption effect, seriously affecting driving comfort. On bumpy roads, it may sometimes be accompanied by a "squeaking" noise. Moreover, if the leakage is particularly severe and the shock absorber fails, it can also cause the vehicle to pull to one side.
If the rear shock absorber is leaking oil, I've encountered this issue several times. Although the car can still be driven for a short distance, it absolutely cannot be used for a long time. Once the oil in the shock absorber leaks, it can no longer properly absorb road bumps, making the ride extremely rough. Especially when turning or braking, the handling noticeably worsens, increasing the risk of skidding or longer braking distances—it's really dangerous. I once drove a car with leaking shocks for a few days, and the car wobbled like a boat. Later, upon inspection, I found the tires had also worn significantly. Minor leaks might temporarily allow for short trips, but it's crucial to visit a repair shop as soon as possible. If the oil completely leaks out and the shock absorber fails entirely, the risk of accidents on bumpy roads or highways increases dramatically. So don’t hesitate—just find a professional mechanic to replace the faulty part. Replacing a shock absorber doesn’t cost much, and safety should always come first.
As someone who frequently deals with similar issues, I'd say that driving with rear shock absorber oil leakage is possible for a very short distance—like when you urgently need to go somewhere nearby. However, if the oil is leaking severely, the car will feel unstable, swaying noticeably from side to side. This not only makes driving uncomfortable but may also cause dizziness for rear passengers. More critically, it compromises safety, especially during emergency braking when responsiveness is reduced. My personal advice is to first check the leakage severity: if it's just minor seepage without dripping, you might drive a short distance. But if oil stains are visible on the ground, avoid prolonged driving at all costs. Additionally, oil leakage could damage other components like tires and bearings. Get it repaired as soon as possible—drive slowly and avoid bumpy roads until fixed.
