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

4 min read

607 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to identify and fix 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.
•Allow the vehicle's suspension to settle before performing any inspections or adjustments.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving
•Poor handling or instability while turning
•Uneven tire wear
•A noticeable increase in road noise or vibrations
•Fluid leaks around the strut assembly
•A knocking or clunking noise when driving over bumps

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible signs of damage or leaks on the strut assemblies.
2
Push down on the front or rear of the vehicle and release; observe how many times the vehicle bounces.
3
Examine tire tread for uneven wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for any unusual sounds such as clunks or knocks.
5
Evaluate the vehicle's handling, stability, and ride comfort during a test drive.
6
With the vehicle safely lifted, manually shake the wheel to check for excessive play or movement.

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

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor
•Pry bar

Parts Required

•New strut assemblies
•Strut mounts and isolators (if needed)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible signs of damage or leaks on the strut assemblies.
2
Push down on the front or rear of the vehicle and release; observe how many times the vehicle bounces.
3
Examine tire tread for uneven wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for any unusual sounds such as clunks or knocks.
5
Evaluate the vehicle's handling, stability, and ride comfort during a test drive.
6
With the vehicle safely lifted, manually shake the wheel to check for excessive play or movement.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, socket set, torque wrench, strut spring compressor, and a pry bar.
Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent any electrical issues.

2. Remove Wheel

Sub-steps:
1. Loosen the lug nuts of the wheel you are working on.
2. Use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
3. Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Remove Strut Assembly

Sub-steps:
1. Disconnect any brake line or ABS sensor connected to the strut.
2. Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle using a socket set.
3. Remove the top strut mount bolts from the engine bay, ensuring you support the strut assembly as you remove the last bolt.
4. Carefully extract the strut assembly from the vehicle.

4. Inspect and Replace Components

Sub-steps:
1. Check the strut for signs of leaking fluid, corrosion, or any physical damage.
2. If necessary, use a strut spring compressor to disassemble the strut and replace the strut cartridge.
3. Replace any worn mounts or isolators during reassembly.
4. Reassemble the strut assembly, ensuring that all components are securely fastened.

5. Reinstall Strut Assembly

Sub-steps:
1. Position the strut assembly back into place and secure it with the top bolts.
2. Reattach the strut to the steering knuckle, tightening the bolts to the manufacturer's torque specifications.
3. Reconnect brake lines and ABS sensors if applicable.

6. Reattach Wheel

Sub-steps:
1. Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle and use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.