Should the Car Shock Absorber Be Replaced if It's Leaking Oil?
4 Answers
If the car shock absorber is leaking oil, it needs to be replaced, and it is recommended to do so promptly. Oil leakage from the shock absorber indicates damage, and its damping effect will gradually diminish. Over time, once all the oil has leaked out, the shock absorber will lose its damping function. As a core component of the vehicle's vibration filtering system, the car shock absorber primarily absorbs vibrations and impacts caused by uneven road surfaces during driving, providing a comfortable ride for passengers inside the vehicle. To quickly dampen the vibrations between the frame and the body, shock absorbers are generally installed in the vehicle's suspension system. The most widely used type in cars is the double-acting telescopic shock absorber.
I've driven quite a few older cars and encountered several instances of shock absorber oil leaks. When there's an oil leak, the car becomes extremely bumpy to drive, and going over potholes feels like there's no cushioning at all, making the ride very uncomfortable. It not only affects comfort but also reduces handling performance, making the car prone to body roll during turns and increasing the risk of skidding. Oil leaks usually occur due to aging seals or damage from scraping against something. Over time, when all the oil leaks out, the shock absorber fails, which can also lead to damage to suspension components, such as deformed control arms or links, making repairs more expensive. Tires also wear out faster, and uneven wear from long-distance driving can lead to potential blowouts. It's advisable to have a professional inspection as soon as you notice oil stains or dripping oil on the shock absorbers. Minor leaks might hold up for a while, but if it's severe, replace them immediately. Developing a habit of regular maintenance makes driving much smoother.
Every time I hear about shock absorber leaks, I get nervous about driving safety. Oil leakage can cause the shock absorber to lose its ability to absorb vibrations, making the car wobble and unstable, increasing braking distance. Especially on slippery roads or during high-speed sharp turns, the car is prone to losing control or rolling over. Tires also wear out faster, and uneven tire pressure increases the risk of a blowout. There are various reasons for oil leaks, such as seal aging or impact damage. If left untreated, the shock absorber will completely fail once the oil runs out, and it will accelerate the wear of chassis components. It is recommended to stop and inspect immediately, checking for fresh oil stains near the shock absorber rod. If found, don’t delay repairs—replacing the shock absorber instantly improves handling. Regular inspections of the suspension system can prevent such issues.
As a novice driver, shock absorber oil leakage is something to take seriously. The shock absorber is located near the wheels and mainly cushions vibrations. After oil leakage, its performance declines, making the car ride more bumpy and unstable during steering or cornering. The common cause is oil leakage due to seal rupture or wear. The method to identify it is simple: observe whether the shock absorber rod is oily or if there are oil drips on the ground. If oil leakage is found, it's recommended to replace it promptly to avoid damaging other suspension components such as links and springs. Delaying a small issue can lead to costly major repairs. Taking a quick walk around the car for a simple check before driving ensures safety and peace of mind.
