SACHS useful tip:
Shocks and dampers leak.

Although a shock absorber or damper may appear to have a leak, this may not in fact be the case. A certain amount of "perspiration" is normal, and even necessary to lubricate the piston rod seal.

Never diagnose shocks and dampers after the vehicle has been driven in the rain - they should be dry.

Therefore:

• Feel the shock absorber/damper with dry fingers. If your fingers remain dry, the shock absorber/damper is not leaking.
• If you are still not sure, wipe off the shock absorber/damper. Check again a few days later!

Cause:

• During every stroke, the piston rod carries a very small amount of oil from the working cylinder to lubricate the seal.

Consequence:

• If the shock absorber/damper was bone-dry, residue from this oil mist will be visible.

Comment:

This is not a malfunction. Following extended periods of use, oil mist residue may be visible on around 1/3 of the container tube.

Cause:

• The piston rod seals are worn out due to:
• • Long use
  • Severe operational demands
  • Sand or road dirt

Consequence:

• Oil loss, and thus lower damping forces

Cause:

• Underbody sealant or corrosion-preventive wax collects on the shocks and dampers.

Consequence:

• It appears that oil is leaking.
• Heat dissipates more slowly.

Comment:

These substances do not belong on the shocks and dampers, so remove them! Accumulated road dirt is also often wrongly diagnosed as leakage.

Cause:

• Strong distortion of shock absorber during installation
• Misaligned attachment points.

Consequence:

• Wear on seal and piston rod guide, leading to oil loss and reduced performance

Comment:

Always tighten the shocks and dampers only after the vehicle is standing on its wheels.

Cause:

• The piston rod was gripped with pliers during installation, which damaged its surface.

Consequence:

• A rough piston rod surface causes the seal to tear, leading to oil loss and reduced performance.

Comment:

Use a special tool to hold the piston rod.