how do I know if my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) struts are worn out

Volkswagen Golf MK8.5 (2024-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

521 words

Problem Statement

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

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 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 to prevent rolling.

Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes.
•Uneven tire wear observed on the front or rear tires.
•Noise such as clunking or knocking sounds during driving or when going over bumps.
•Difficulty maintaining control during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.
•The vehicle tends to sway excessively during lane changes or at high speeds.
•The 'Check Engine' light may illuminate if suspension-related sensors are affected.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the struts visually for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how quickly it rebounds.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns which might indicate strut issues.
4
Listen for any abnormal noises while driving over bumps or rough roads.
5
Assess vehicle handling by taking it for a test drive to evaluate stability during turns and braking.
6
Use a suspension tester if available to measure strut damping performance.

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

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Jack and jack stands
•Strut spring compressor (if replacing strut springs)
•Screwdriver set

Parts Required

•Replacement struts (front and/or rear)
•Strut mount (if worn)
•New strut nuts and washers (if applicable)

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Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes.

•Uneven tire wear observed on the front or rear tires.

•Noise such as clunking or knocking sounds during driving or when going over bumps.

•Difficulty maintaining control during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.

•The vehicle tends to sway excessively during lane changes or at high speeds.

•The 'Check Engine' light may illuminate if suspension-related sensors are affected.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the struts visually for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how quickly it rebounds.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns which might indicate strut issues.
4
Listen for any abnormal noises while driving over bumps or rough roads.
5
Assess vehicle handling by taking it for a test drive to evaluate stability during turns and braking.
6
Use a suspension tester if available to measure strut damping performance.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather all necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to ensure safety.

2. Remove Wheel

Sub-steps:
1. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where the strut will be replaced.
2. Use a jack to lift the vehicle and place jack stands for safety.
3. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Remove Strut Assembly

Sub-steps:
1. Locate the strut assembly and remove any components obstructing access (e.g., brake line brackets, sensors).
2. Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle using a socket set.
3. Unbolt the top mount of the strut from the vehicle's body (usually located in the engine compartment).
4. Carefully extract the strut assembly from the vehicle.

4. Install New Strut

Sub-steps:
1. Place the new strut assembly into position, securing it at the top mount first.
2. Reattach the strut to the steering knuckle and tighten the bolts to manufacturer specifications.
3. Reattach any components that were removed to access the strut.

5. Reinstall Wheel and Lower Vehicle

Sub-steps:
1. Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.
3. Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque settings.

6. Final Check

Sub-steps:
1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Perform a test drive to ensure proper handling and noise elimination.

Tools Required:

Socket set
Torque wrench
Jack and jack stands
Strut spring compressor (if replacing strut springs)
Screwdriver set

Parts Required:

Replacement struts (front and/or rear)
Strut mount (if worn)
New strut nuts and washers (if applicable)

Estimated Repair Time: 2-4 hours

Safety Warnings:

Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface to prevent rolling.