Strut Leak

Strut leak

Struts are frequently rejected and exchanged because of leaks. Examinations on test stand and on the vehicle have shown that the replacement of a large number of rejected strut was not justified.

Slight leaking of oil ("sweating") at piston rod seal is no reason to replace a strut. A strut with oil is OK under the following circumstances:





^ Oil leak (shown screened in illustration) is visible, but dull, matte and possibly dry from dust
^ Oil leak reaches at most, from upper shock absorber seal (piston rod seal) to lower spring plate - arrow -.

Note:
^ A slight oil leak is advantageous because it lubricates the piston rod seal and extends its service life. This applies to struts on front and rear axles