Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection (Shock Absorber)

Condition 1

Oil or fluid residue only on the bottom or top of the shock absorber and not originating from the shaft seal, is not a shock absorber related problem. DO NOT replace the shock absorber, look for other external leaks.

Condition 2

Light film/residue on approximately 1/3 (a) or less of the lower shock tube (A) and originating from the shaft seal, is a NORMAL condition. DO NOT replace the shock absorber.

Condition 3

Oil drip or trail down the lower shock tube and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber.

Condition 4

An extreme wet film of oil covering more than 1/3 (b) of the lower shock tube and originating from the shaft seal (B), is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement.

1. Verify the customer's concern is present. If the concern is present, continue to the next step. If the concern is not present, then the vehicle is operating normally.

Note:

The shock absorber assembly DOES NOT have to be removed from the vehicle to perform the following inspection procedure.

2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
3. Visually inspect each of the shock absorbers for external fluid leaks. Refer to the following conditions 1, 2 , 3 , and 4 for visual inspection.

• If conditions 1 or 2 are found, continue to step 4.
• If conditions 3 or 4 are found, replace shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement.