my Skoda Octavia's struts are leaking what should I do

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather all necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface.
• Use wheel chocks to secure the vehicle.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2. Lift the Vehicle

• Jack the vehicle: Use a hydraulic jack to elevate the vehicle and place jack stands under the frame for safety.
• Remove the wheels: Use a socket set to remove lug nuts and take off the wheels for easier access to the struts.

3. Remove the Strut Assembly

• Detach the brake line: Carefully unbolt the brake line bracket from the strut using a wrench.
• Remove the lower strut bolts: Use a socket set to remove the bolts securing the strut to the lower control arm.
• Unbolt the strut from the top mount: Open the hood and access the strut top mount. Use a socket wrench to remove the nuts securing the strut to the upper mount.
• Extract the strut assembly: Carefully pull the strut assembly out of the wheel well.

4. Replace or Repair

• Replace the strut: If the strut is leaking, replace it with a new unit. Ensure the new strut is compatible with the Skoda Octavia model.
• Reassemble:
  • Install the new strut by reversing the removal steps.
  • Ensure all bolts are tightened to manufacturer's torque specifications (typically around 50-60 Nm for strut mount bolts, but refer to the service manual for exact values).

5. Reinstall Wheels and Lower Vehicle

• Put the wheels back on: Reinstall the wheels and tighten lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to the recommended torque (usually around 100 Nm).
• Lower the vehicle: Remove jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

6. Final Checks

• Reconnect the battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
• Check fluid levels: Ensure that all necessary fluids (brake fluid, etc.) are at appropriate levels.