Shock Absorber Leaks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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.

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