Rear Shock Absorber Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2022 Cadillac CT4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

The shock absorber 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 lower shock absorber tube is normal. DO NOT replace the shock absorber for this condition.

NOTE:

A typical shock absorber is depicted in graphics for illustrative purposes only and may differ in actual appearance.

Inspection

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

Condition 1

GM5040977

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Oil or fluid residue only on the bottom or top of the shock absorber tube (1) and NOT 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

GM5040983

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Light film/residue on approximately 1/3 or less of the lower shock tube (1) and originating from the shaft seal, is a NORMAL condition. DO NOT replace the shock absorber.

Condition 3

GM5040996

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Oil drip or trail down the lower shock absorber tube (1) and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber.

Condition 4

GM5041010

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

An extreme wet film of oil covering more than 1/3 of the lower shock tube (1) and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber.

Condition 5

GM5368129

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

NOTE:

The shock absorber boot may conceal the size of leak.

If equipped with automatic leveling suspension, a greasy to oily appearance on the shock absorber boot (1) and at the shock absorber tube, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber.

Correction

If conditions 1 or 2 are found, continue to step 3.
If conditions 3, 4, or 5 are found, replace the shock absorber.
Remove the support and lower the vehicle.
If equipped with electronic suspension control system, ensure that the system is working properly and no DTC's are present. If the system is working properly, continue to step 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.