What to Do If the Shock Absorber Is Leaking Oil?
2 Answers
Oil stains on the surface of the shock absorber cylinder do not necessarily indicate leakage. Determining whether a shock absorber is leaking or has failed depends on factors such as the type of shock absorber, the severity of the leak, and the location of the oil stains to decide if replacement is needed. For shock absorbers with only minor leaks, replacement may not be necessary. Here is additional information: 1. Determining if it has failed: If you suspect the shock absorber has failed, park the car on a flat surface and press down firmly on the body. If the body rebounds no more than 2-3 times, it is normal; if the up-and-down shaking does not stop quickly, the shock absorber may have failed. If the warranty period has expired, you do not necessarily have to replace it with original parts from the 4S store, as they can be very expensive. You can purchase products from other reputable companies, which are often cheaper than original parts and of comparable or even better quality.
After I noticed the shock absorber was leaking oil last time, I first inspected it myself. Oil leakage is usually caused by the failure of rubber seals due to aging or internal component wear. Symptoms include increased bumpiness, more pronounced swaying over potholes, and uneven tire wear. If left unaddressed, reduced damping performance will affect braking stability and increase the risk of steering loss at high speeds. Having seen many cases, I recommend promptly visiting a repair shop for diagnosis and replacing damaged components. For DIY solutions, only experienced individuals should clean oil stains to observe leakage conditions. Don't skimp and make do—it's about driving safety. Spending more on maintenance is better than risking an accident. During routine maintenance, it's best to regularly check the shock absorber's condition to prevent minor issues from becoming major hazards.
