Shock Absorber Leaks

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Shock absorbers are frequently rejected and replaced because of leaks. Examinations on the test stand and on the vehicle have shown that the replacement of a large number of rejected shock absorbers was not justified.

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

Oil leakage (shaded in illustration) is visible, but dull, matte and possibly dry due to dust.

Fig 1: Identifying Fluid Leakage
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.
Oil excretion extends from upper shock absorber connection (piston rod oil seal) no further than lower spring plate -arrow-