Volkswagen Golf Service & Repair Manual: Checking shock absorbers when removed

Volkswagen Golf Service & Repair Manual / Running gear, axles, steering / Technical data / Evaluating accident vehicles / Checking shock absorbers when removed

Defective shock absorbers can be identified by loud rumbling noises when driving, caused by wheel hopping, especially on bad roads. Heavy fluid leakage is an additional visual indication.

Note

Shock absorbers are maintenance-free; shock absorber fluid cannot be topped up.

After removal, a shock absorber can be checked by hand as follows:

–	Compress shock absorber by hand.

The piston rod should move smoothly over the entire stroke with uniform resistance and without jolts.

–	Release piston rod.

If the shock absorber has sufficient gas pressure the piston rod will return by itself to its original position.

Note

If this is not the case, the shock absorber does not necessarily need to be renewed. Provided there has been no major loss of fluid, it will still be as effective as a conventional shock absorber.

Even without gas pressure, the shock absorber will provide full damping effect as long as there has been no major loss of fluid. However, it may produce more noise.

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 ...

Steering rack

To achieve the desired results when performing repairs on the steering rack it is important to work with the greatest possible care and cleanliness, and to use proper ...

Other materials:

2-pack HS Vario surfacer
Designation: 2-pack HS Vario surfacer -LGF 786 004 A4-, grey Issued 04.2013 Product description 2-pack HS Vario surfacer is a high-grade, versatile, VOC-compliant 2-pa ...

Removing and installing plenum chamber bulkhead
Special tools and workshop equipment required Torque wrench -V.A.G 1783- Removing – Removing plenum chamber cover → Chapter. ...

Removing and installing wheel bearing unit, torsion beam axle
Special tools and workshop equipment required Fitting sleeve -3241/4- Hub grease cap puller -VW 637/2- Torque wrench -V.A.G 1332- Tool insert -T10162 A- Torque wrench -V.A.G 1410- ...