Struts Or Shock Absorbers On-Vehicle Testing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Montana, 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2002 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? If so, go to next step. If not, see SYMPTOMS - SUSPENSION GENERAL DIAGNOSIS .
Verify that the malfunction is present. Does the vehicle operate normally? If so, system is OK. If not, go to next step.
NOTE: A light film of oil on the top portion of the reservoir is normal.
Inspect each strut or shock absorber for external fluid leakage. Is the strut or shock absorber leaking? If so, go to step 5 . If not, go to next step.
Use your hands in order to lift up and push down each corner of the vehicle 3 times. Remove your hands from the vehicle. Does the vehicle stop bouncing after 2 cycles? If so, go to step 6 . If not, go to next step.
Replace the strut or shock absorber. Refer to the following procedures:
- STRUT, STRUT COMPONENT AND/OR SPRING REPLACEMENT in FRONT SUSPENSION .
- SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT ALL WHEEL DRIVE or SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT FRONT WHEEL DRIVE
After repairs are complete, go to next step.
Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? If so, system is OK. If not, go back to step 3 .