Is it necessary to replace the rear shock absorber if it's leaking oil on a Corolla?
3 Answers
The rear shock absorber of a Corolla must be replaced if it's leaking oil. Introduction to automotive shock absorbers: Shock absorbers rapidly dampen the vibrations between the vehicle frame and body, improving the smoothness and comfort of the ride. Most automotive suspension systems are equipped with shock absorbers, with the double-acting telescopic shock absorber being widely used. Shock absorbers are wear-prone components in vehicles. Their performance directly affects the driving stability and the lifespan of other parts, so it's essential to keep them in good working condition. Function of automotive shock absorbers: Shock absorbers ensure smooth vehicle operation by buffering vibrations. Without them, the car would drive unevenly and shake. Most automotive shock absorbers are hydraulic. Their working principle involves filling a cylinder, drilled with small holes and containing a piston, with pressurized oil. When the spring vibrates, the oil is forced through the small holes, thus providing damping.
Just helped a friend with this issue a couple of days ago. The oil leakage from the Corolla's shock absorbers really depends on the severity. If you wipe off the oil stains and then see a coin-sized oil stain reappear after three or four days, it can still last for another 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers. But if it's like my car last year, where oil was dripping onto the brake discs, making a thumping noise over speed bumps and causing the car to pull to one side, you must replace it immediately! If you don't, it will wear out the tires very quickly, and the rear end may skid during emergency braking, which is especially dangerous in heavy rain. The mechanic said the original part costs around 400 yuan per unit, and you'll need a wheel alignment after replacement. However, if it's just a slight oil film on the surface, you can clean it with carburetor cleaner and observe for half a month—if no new oil stains appear, then it's fine.
I've driven for over 20 years and seen many shock absorbers leaking oil. There are three key points to check: First, crawl under the car and wipe the oil stain with your finger - a small, sticky amount is normal seepage; if your hand comes away covered in thin oil with bubbles, it's a real leak. Then test drive: go over continuous speed bumps at 50 mph, if there's no significant bouncing in the back seats, no rush to replace. Finally consider driving conditions: if mostly city driving, a leaking shock can last half a year. Last time a car owner found a leak but couldn't repair immediately, I taught him to add buffer rubber blocks on the springs as a temporary fix. Of course, long-term neglect will accelerate wear on suspension ball joints and increase body roll, especially when fully loaded on mountain roads - be careful. Aftermarket shocks now cost just 300 yuan to replace.
