What are the symptoms of a bad McPherson Strut?
There are several ways in which a strut may fail or need replacement: • Most common is leakage. A small film of oil around the shaft is normally not a problem. Fluid covering several inches of the strut or dripping off indicates a need for replacement. • Noise, particularly on bumps, and coming from the strut is another problem indicating need for replacement. This should be carefully diagnosed, as good struts are replaced quite often due to mis-diagnosis of noise source complaints. • Ride quality is somewhat subjective but excessive bouncing and diving of the suspension is another symptom of worn struts. • Finally, struts are sometimes bent from pot holes, striking curbs or other impact to the wheel. This will affect wheel alignment and normally cause tire wear.
