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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Service & Repair Manual: Leaks at shock absorbers

This page repeats the accident-evaluation context for shock absorber leaks: visible leakage often doesn't justify replacement, based on test-rig and vehicle inspection findings.

Shock absorbers are often replaced because of externally visible leakage. Inspections on the test rig and in the vehicle have shown that in the majority of cases this replacement is not justified.
Slight loss of fluid (“sweating”) at the piston rod seal is not a reason for replacing a shock absorber. An oil sweating shock absorber is acceptable under the following conditions:
   
Fluid seepage (as shown in the shaded part of the illustration) is visible, but the fluid is dull and possibly dried by dust.
The fluid seepage extends only from the top shock absorber seal (piston rod oil seal) down to the bottom spring plate -arrow-.
 

Leaks at shock absorbers

    Questions & answers

    Leaks at shock absorbers — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    How do I assess Golf Mk7 rear shock absorber leaks?
    Same criteria as front: light film is normal, heavy drips mean replacement. DCC dampers require additional electronic fault checking.
    Evaluating accident vehicles
    ...

    Noises from shock absorbers
    Shock absorbers are often replaced because of noises (rumbling, etc.) experienced by the customer. Inspections on the test rig and in the vehicle have shown that in a ...