GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?

Go to Step 2

Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis

2

Verify that the malfunction is present.

Does the vehicle operate normally?

System OK

Go to Step 3

3

Important: A light film of oil on the top portion of the reservoir is normal.

Inspect each strut or shock absorber for external fluid leakage.

Is the strut or shock absorber leaking?

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 4

4

Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection .

Is the vehicle trim height correct?

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 6

5

  1. Disconnect the lower mounting of each shocks.
  2. Raise and lower the bottom of each shocks, noting the amount of jounce and rebound at each shock absorber.
  3. Inspect each shock for rate differences or a binding condition. Compare the action with a known good shock if necessary.

Is there any definite rate difference or binding?

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 8

6

Replace the front spring or the rear spring.

    • Refer to Leaf Springs Replacement for the front suspension.
    • Refer to Leaf Spring Replacement for the rear suspension.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 8

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7

Replace the shock absorber.

    • Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement for the front suspension.
    • Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement for the rear suspension.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 8

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8

Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 2