Does slight shock absorber oil leakage require replacement?

[Tom]

It depends on the situation. If it's just a slight oil leak, replacement is not necessary. However, replacement is mandatory when you notice abnormal noises from the shock absorber, excessive stiffness, damaged or detached rubber pads, deformed dust cover, oil leakage, etc. Another indication for replacement is when the vehicle experiences severe vibrations during gentle driving followed by emergency braking, as this suggests a shock absorber issue. The following phenomena indicate shock absorber damage: Shock absorber oil leakage: Oil can be visibly seen on the shock absorber. Hearing a tapping sound from the chassis: If the noise from the stabilizer link ball joint is ruled out, the shock absorber is the likely culprit, especially if it's also leaking oil. The lack of oil means the shock absorber loses its hydraulic damping effect, leading to abnormal noises.