how to tell if struts are bad on my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

Volkswagen Golf MK8.5 (2024-Present)

Error Codes

3-5 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

530 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace bad struts on your 2015-2019 Volkswagen Golf MK7. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

3-5 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface before lifting.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps
•Vehicle sways or leans during turns
•Uneven tire wear
•Noise from the strut area (clunking or rattling)
•Reduced ride comfort and handling stability
•Visible leakage of fluid from the strut assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces before settling.
2
Inspect the strut assembly visually for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
3
Check tire wear patterns for uneven wear that may indicate strut issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for abnormal noises such as clunking or rattling.
5
Evaluate the vehicle's handling during turns for excessive body roll or swaying.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Hydraulic jack
•Jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Wrench set
•Screwdriver set

Parts Required

•New front or rear strut assemblies
•New mounting hardware if necessary

Related Faults

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces before settling.
2
Inspect the strut assembly visually for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
3
Check tire wear patterns for uneven wear that may indicate strut issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for abnormal noises such as clunking or rattling.
5
Evaluate the vehicle's handling during turns for excessive body roll or swaying.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off.
Wear safety glasses and gloves.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle.
Secure with jack stands to prevent movement.
Remove the front or rear wheels as needed to access the struts.

3. Remove the Old Struts

Front Struts:
1. Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut using a socket.
2. Remove the brake line bracket from the strut.
3. Remove the top strut mount nuts under the hood using a socket and ratchet.
4. Unscrew the lower strut bolts from the knuckle.
5. Carefully pull the strut assembly out from the vehicle.
Rear Struts:
1. Remove the lower strut bolts securing it to the axle.
2. Remove the top strut mount nuts from inside the trunk.
3. Extract the strut assembly from the rear suspension.

4. Install New Struts

Position the new strut assembly into place.
Reattach the top strut mount nuts and tighten to manufacturer specifications (usually around 20-25 Nm).
Secure the lower strut bolts to the knuckle and torque to specifications (typically 90 Nm).
Reconnect the sway bar link and brake line bracket.

5. Reassemble the Vehicle

Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Tighten the wheel lug nuts to the specified torque (usually around 120 Nm).