{"id":86639,"date":"2023-07-05T03:19:08","date_gmt":"2023-07-05T10:19:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=86639"},"modified":"2023-11-28T23:24:16","modified_gmt":"2023-11-29T07:24:16","slug":"what-causes-leaking-shocks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-causes-leaking-shocks\/","title":{"rendered":"What Causes Leaking Shocks?"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_27aa59-93{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_27aa59-93 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_27aa59-93 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-3abeaa  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-93c154\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_f64c15-0f, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_f64c15-0f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_f64c15-0f\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_f64c15-0f mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_f64c15-0f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_f64c15-0f\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_f64c15-0f img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_f64c15-0f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_f64c15-0f\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading_f64c15-0f summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_f64c15-0f\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Shock absorbers use a piston and hydraulic fluid to create resistance against the up-and-down movement of your vehicle as it goes over various bumps on the road.<\/li><li>Leaking shocks are caused by a damaged piston shaft, bad shock seals, worn chrome coating, oil mist residue, and regular wear and tear.<\/li><li>A suspension leak will lead to a bumpy ride for you on the road and can even compromise your safety.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/shock-absorber-and-strut-assembly\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shock absorbers\">Shock absorbers<\/a> are an essential part of your vehicle&rsquo;s suspension system. They&rsquo;re there to keep your drive as smooth as possible as you cruise down roads or along trails. If your shock absorbers start leaking though, you&rsquo;re in for quite a bit of trouble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Shock Absorbers Work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shock absorbers, also known as dampers, create resistance against the up-and-down movement of your vehicle as it goes over various bumps on the road. By controlling this motion, it dampens the energy in your suspension&rsquo;s springs, converting the kinetic energy into thermal energy. When the energy is converted into heat instead of motion, you&rsquo;re left with a smoother ride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mechanically, the shocks have three main parts&ndash;the body, the rod (or shaft), and the piston assembly, which includes the valve system suspended in hydraulic fluid. The piston and valve assembly are typically connected to the rod, but they can also connect to the shock&rsquo;s body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The valve assembly uses the hydraulic fluid to dampen and control the motion of the vehicle&rsquo;s suspension. It creates resistance to the motion of the rod specifically. This resistance is what converts the kinetic energy into heat. The fluid in the shocks absorbs the heat, which eventually moves to the shock body, where it can freely dissipate into the air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/diagram-of-shock-absorbers.jpg\" alt=\"diagram of shock absorbers\" class=\"wp-image-89535\" width=\"825\" height=\"884\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/diagram-of-shock-absorbers.jpg 825w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/diagram-of-shock-absorbers-280x300.jpg 280w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/diagram-of-shock-absorbers-768x823.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/diagram-of-shock-absorbers-150x161.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 100vw, 825px\"><figcaption>Diagram of shock absorbers | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Causes Behind Leaking Shocks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your shocks are leaking fluid, they could be less efficient at both dampening jolts and heat dissipation.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_77b110-f1{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_77b110-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_77b110-f1 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var( --global-kb-row-default-top, 25px );padding-bottom:var( --global-kb-row-default-bottom, 25px );padding-top:20px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;padding-right:32px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;padding-right:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}#kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-rowlayout alignnone pro-tip-wrap\"><div id=\"kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca\" class=\"kt-row-layout-inner kt-layout-id_e18b43-ca\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-gutter-none kt-v-gutter-default kt-row-valign-top kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-m-colapse-left-to-right kt-mobile-layout-right-golden  kt-custom-first-width-10  kt-custom-second-width-90\"><style>.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column_c41c36-11 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_c41c36-11 kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image_bb7615-22.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image_bb7615-22 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image_bb7615-22.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image_bb7615-22 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image_bb7615-22 figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image_bb7615-22 .image-is-svg, .kb-image_bb7615-22 .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image_bb7615-22 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image_bb7615-22\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_98248c-01{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_98248c-01 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-2 kadence-column_98248c-01 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\n            Shocks can fail internally but never leak externally. Failed shocks don&rsquo;t dampen spring oscillations. This means that when you go over a bump, the end of the vehicle with failed shocks will continue to bounce rather than just go over the bump like it should.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/rear-shock-absorber-from-a-ford-expedition-started-leaking.jpg\" alt=\"rear shock absorber from a ford expedition started leaking\" class=\"wp-image-89536\" width=\"540\" height=\"960\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/rear-shock-absorber-from-a-ford-expedition-started-leaking.jpg 540w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/rear-shock-absorber-from-a-ford-expedition-started-leaking-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/rear-shock-absorber-from-a-ford-expedition-started-leaking-150x267.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\"><figcaption>This rear shock absorber from a Ford Expedition started leaking as soon as the vehicle was raised on a lift but had never leaked before, and had to be replaced. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Generally, if there&rsquo;s a leak, you&rsquo;ll notice decreased performance in your shocks, leading to a bumpier ride, unusual noises, irregular tire wear, and reduced handling and braking ability. Alternatively, you might be mistaking natural shock operations for a leak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following are some causes that can lead to your shocks leaking, whether as a result of damage or as part of their shock-absorbing process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Oil Mist Residue<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oil mist residue is a perfectly natural part of your shocks operating as designed. It mostly appears on very dry shocks because you won&rsquo;t notice it otherwise. Oil mist occurs when the piston rod spreads a very small amount of oil from the cylinder onto the seal. The rod appears damp, but it won&rsquo;t feel wet if you touch it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, if you see oil mist that is coming from inside the shock, you can&rsquo;t add oil. In this case, you must replace the shock and it&rsquo;s best to replace them in pairs (both front or both rear).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p>If you see oil mist that is coming from inside the shock, you can&rsquo;t add oil. In this case, you must replace the shock and it&rsquo;s best to replace them in pairs.<\/p><cite><em>&ndash;<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/richardmccuistian\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician\">Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician<\/a><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/mist-on-the-shock-body-537x1024.jpg\" alt=\"mist on the shock body\" class=\"wp-image-89537\" width=\"537\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/mist-on-the-shock-body-537x1024.jpg 537w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/mist-on-the-shock-body-157x300.jpg 157w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/mist-on-the-shock-body-768x1465.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/mist-on-the-shock-body-805x1536.jpg 805w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/mist-on-the-shock-body-150x286.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/mist-on-the-shock-body.jpg 839w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 537px) 100vw, 537px\"><figcaption>If you see mist on the shock body such as what&rsquo;s shown in the photo, replace the shock and the one on the opposite side as well. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Damaged Piston Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A damaged shaft can lead to leaking shock fluid. When the shaft has scratches or other damage, it can tear the seal, which leads to oil loss and reduced performance. These scratches and dents can come from flying pieces of debris scratching the surface or from the shaft being improperly installed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bad Shock Seals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shock seals block the inside of your shocks from the dirt and grime of the outside world. Over time, seals may become brittle and get torn easily. Rocks, gravel, and other debris can also damage your shock seals, leading to an eventual leak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Worn Chrome Coating<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your car shocks might be leaking because the coating on one of the piston rods is worn down. If the damper isn&rsquo;t aligned properly, the coating is rubbed away. The shock seal and piston rod guide then sustain more damage as the misaligned damper continues to operate. Once these parts wear down, the shocks will leak<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"article-search-widget\">\n<div class=\"cp-search\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/w_auto,dpr_auto\/carparts\/logos\/badge_wordmark\/full_color\/CP_LOGO_COLOUR_RGB\" alt=\"CarParts.com\" width=\"300\" height=\"56\">\n<\/div>\n<form id=\"cpsearchform\" name=\"cpsearchform\" action=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/search\" method=\"get\" target=\"_blank\" accept-charset=\"character_set\" aria-label=\"search CarParts.com\">\n    <input type=\"text\" class=\"keyword\" name=\"q\" placeholder=\"Search for parts on CarParts.com\" value=\"\" aria-label=\"Search CarParts.com\"><input type=\"submit\" class=\"btn-search\" value=\"Search\" aria-label=\"Search\">\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wear and Tear<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">General <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/faulty-shock-absorber-symptoms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"wear and tear\">wear and tear<\/a> will eventually lead to front and rear leaking shocks. Your shocks go through a lot of abuse and will eventually leak and need replacing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When To Schedule Shock Maintenance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because the shocks are an important part of your vehicle&rsquo;s suspension, you should have regularly scheduled <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-long-do-shocks-last\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"maintenance checks\">maintenance checks<\/a> even before any problems start to show up. Generally, it&rsquo;s a good idea to have these inspections every 50,000 miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Shock Failure\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/t9GCRs0g1Go?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption>If your shocks are unusually bouncy, it&rsquo;s time to get them checked by a technician.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also watch this tutorial video on how to replace the rear shocks of your 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to replace the Rear Shocks 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500 &#128663;\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/jQdlxjcOL0s?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Price of Replacement Shocks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A suspension leak will lead to a bumpy ride for you on the road and can even compromise your safety. If your car struts or shocks are leaking, it&rsquo;s best to have them replaced as soon as possible. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/shocks-and-struts-replacement-cost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Replacement parts\">Replacement parts<\/a> will run you anywhere from $10 to $3,800.<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Shock absorbers are an essential part of your vehicle&rsquo;s suspension system. They&rsquo;re there to keep your drive as smooth as&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-causes-leaking-shocks\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":86748,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3755],"tags":[1292],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":["post-86639","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-diy","category-suspension","tag-shock-absorber-and-strut-assembly-2","entry"],"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What Causes Leaking Shocks? - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Leaking shocks can cause a lot of trouble for your suspension system. 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Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust."},{"term_id":2985,"user_id":1646,"is_guest":0,"slug":"richardmccuistian","display_name":"Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/richard-mccuistian.png","url2x":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/richard-mccuistian.png"},"author_category":"","user_url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/richardmccuistian\/","last_name":"McCuistian","first_name":"Richard","job_title":"ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician","description":"<div class=\"auth-social-links\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/richard-mccuistian-2681891b\/\" class=\"btn\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"linkedin\" aria-labelledby=\"linkedin\">LinkedIn<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/McCuistian\" class=\"btn\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"instagram\" aria-labelledby=\"instagram\">Youtube<\/a><\/div>\r\n\r\nRichard McCuistian grew up in Alabama learning from his father who ran an automotive repair shop. Richard has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others (published every year since May 2000). He has developed training courses and written or edited training material for companies in the U.S. Canada, and the Netherlands, and even Bulgaria. He maintained an \u201cask a mechanic\u201d website for 10 years answering questions emailed to him from all over the world.\r\n\r\nRichard has an instructional automotive YouTube channel \u201cMcCuistian\u201d with 13,500 subscribers and over 1,300 videos. Much of his professional work requires photography and videography in shop environments, but Richard also enjoys taking pictures of landscapes, skyscapes, old barns and houses, small towns. He has produced a coffee table book of digital watercolors called \u201cMemories of South Alabama\u201d created from his personal photos, along with a dozen Christian fiction short original novels and a collection of short stories, all available in Kindle or softcover format. Richard has written a 2,500-word Bible study every week for the past 20 years and uses it to teach a small group at his church every Sunday morning.\r\n\r\n<strong>Credentials:<\/strong>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"author-list\">\r\n<li><p>ASE Certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Professional Mechanic\/Technician for 25 years with experience on diesel and gasoline engines, vehicles and equipment (including hydraulics).<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Spent 5 years in fleet maintenance, 20 years in independent shops and dealerships (VW, Mazda, Renault, Jeep, Ford, Lincoln), specializing in driveability and electronics for the last 14 years of his career at the same dealership.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Senior Contributing Editor at Motor Age Magazine, first published in Motor Age in May of 2000 and every year since. He has won two International Automotive Media Awards for technical articles published in trade magazines.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Has attended hundreds of hours of automotive training from OEMs including GM, Volkswagen, Mazda, Renault, Jeep, Chrysler, as well as additional training at events like KC Vision and MACS (Mobile Air Climate Systems Association).<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Taught college level auto mechanics for 19 years.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Has written for automotive training companies (including course development work for training companies in Canada and the Netherlands) and has been hired to teach professional trade show technician courses at multiple training events in Texas and Alabama.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>While still teaching at the college level, Richard launched a new automotive program in Geneva, Alabama, setting up a dual enrollment department in a new building, organizing the shop and classroom, teaching morning classes to high school students for 2 years while still teaching at the college in the afternoon.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Richard\u2019s college program at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College worked at professional shop speed during his tenure to prepare graduates for production level work in the real world.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/86639","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=86639"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/86639\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/86748"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=86639"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=86639"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=86639"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=86639"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}