GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Holden 🢒 2009 🢒 Viva 🢒 Suspension 🢒 Suspension General Diagnosis 🢒 Ride Diagnosis
Table 1: Struts Seem Weak
Table 2: Struts are Noisy
Table 3: Leaks

Strut Dampener

A strut dampener is basically a shock absorber. However, strut dampeners are easier to extend and retract by hand than are shock absorbers.

Struts Seem Weak

Checks

Actions

Inspect the tire pressures.

Adjust the tire pressures to the specifications on the tire placard.

Inspect the load conditions under which the vehicle is normally driven.

Consult with the owner to confirm the owner's understanding of normal load conditions.

Test the compression and rebound effectiveness of the strut dampener.
    • Quickly push down and then lift up on the corner of the bumper nearest the strut dampener being tested.
    • Compare the compression and rebound with those of a similar vehicle that has an acceptable ride quality.
    • Replace the strut dampener, if needed.

Struts are Noisy

Checks

Actions

Inspect the mountings for looseness or damage.

Tighten the strut dampener. Replace the strut dampener, if needed.

Test the compression and rebound effectiveness of the strut dampener.
    • Quickly push down and then lift up on the corner of the bumper nearest the strut dampener being tested.
    • Compare the compression and rebound with those of a similar vehicle that has an acceptable ride quality.
    • Replace the strut dampener, if needed.

Leaks

Checks

Actions

Inspect for a slight trace of fluid.

The strut dampener is OK.

Inspect the seal cover on the fully extended strut.

Replace the strut dampener.

Inspect for an excessive amount of fluid on the strut dampener.

Replace the strut dampener.