Front Suspension

Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection (Coil Over Shock)

Note: The coil over shock assembly DOES NOT have to be removed from the vehicle to perform the following inspection procedure.

Note: A light film of oil on the top portion of the shock absorber tube is normal. DO NOT replace the shock absorber for this condition.

Condition 1

Oil or fluid residue only on the bottom of the lower shock absorber tube or other coil over shock absorber and originating from the shaft seal, is not a shock absorber related problem. DO NOT replace the shock absorber, look for other external leaks.

Condition 2

Light film/residue on the shock absorber tube, but not on the spring seat and originating from the shaft seal, is a NORMAL condition. DO NOT replace the shock absorber.

Condition 3

Oil drip or trail down the shock absorber tube and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber.

Condition 4

An extreme wet film of oil covering the shock absorber tube and pooling in the spring seat and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber.

Inspection
1. Verify the customer's concern is present. If the concern is present, continue to the next step. If the concern is not present, then the vehicle is operating normally.

Note: The shock assembly DOES NOT have to be removed from the vehicle to perform the following inspection procedure.

2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (Description and Operation).
3. Visually inspect each of the shock absorbers for external fluid leaks. Refer to the following conditions 1, 2, 3, and 4 for visual inspection.

* If conditions 1 or 2 are found, continue to step 4.
* If conditions 3 or 4 are found, replace shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement.

4. If equipped with electronic suspension control system, ensure that the system is working properly. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point-Electronic Suspension Control.
5. Use your hands in order to lift up and push down on each corner of the vehicle 3 times. Remove your hands from the vehicle. If the corner motion exceeds 2 cycles, replace the shock absorber. If the shock absorber does not exceed 2 cycles, NO repair is necessary.