So it looks as though my shocks are leaking oil? I didn't know they had oil in them or is something else leaking? Is it safe to drive the car like this? Should I not drive it? How would I fix it and what is the estimated cost? All help appreciated thanks!

 

 

Time for replacements.

 

What's your mileage?

It's safe to drove, although your ride comfort may suffer. You need to replace both shocks up front. You may choose to replace the rear struts as well even if they are not damaged, so that all 4 corners have new parts but if money is a concern that's not absolutely necessary unless they're leaking too. Replacement aftermarket ones cost about $100 each give or take. OEM ones will cost more. You could choose to upgrade to something more performance oriented like Koni shocks/struts which are firmer and provide adjustable damping. I have them and love them, they're worlds better than the "32 way adjustable" ones that come with most coilovers. They run about $900 or so for a set (if I remember correctly). It is NOT necessary, but since you are already paying for the labor you might consider replacing the springs too. You can choose OEM hight or lowering springs. Swift are a good choice and my recommendation.

You can also choose coilovers that will require you change out the shocks/struts and springs. They offer the benefit of being able to lower your ride ride height and adjust it to different heights, although most people set it at a height they like and never change it.

 

I see thank you for the info... Money is an issue at the moment unfortunately for performance upgrades. Although I'd love to upgrade and get an inch and a half lower ... I was planning on driving my car to a diff state in the next couple of days. Do you think it would be an issue with a leaking shock?

 

Mileage is 76k

 

Consider this: how long have you already been driving on it like that? It's not good, but it can be driven with a leaking shock. I would repair it as soon as possible though. At 76K miles you should probaly change all 4 corners.

 

Just happened today. I need to change them but I was planning on leaving this wed. I just don't want it to break and I'm stuck somewhere far.

 

On a budget, might look at KYB or Monroe for replacements, I think Tokico makes the OEM shocks but not 100% sure. The rears are a simple DIY, but the fronts will require a swap of the springs so you'd need to "rent" the spring compressors from autozone or take them to a shop to swap.

 

You mean the giant "TOKICO" lettering stamped on the body in the first picture he posted wasn't enough of a clue? Lol.

KYB and Tokico both have inexpensive OEM replacement units.
https://www.myg37.com/forums/brakes-...yb-shocks.html

 

And yes, the "shocks" use oil. Drag as a piston is pushed and pulled through oil is what dampens spring oscillation.

 

Well, gee, I guess I should pay closer attention
At least I got it (kinda).

 

So I won't be able to use the old springs? Or will the shocks come with the springs? It is the front shock that needs to be replaced.

 

Yes you will reuse the spring and upper mount flange (and triangle gasket).

 

Try to find a used set of swift springs and buy some oem replacements from conceptzperformance at a good price and then get an aligment! Perfect time to replace the springs if you want an inch lower! You can wait to replace them but just remember it will affect ride quality and can affect tire wear and gas mileage from what I see but probably not too noticeable to be honest. Find a good reputable shop that's affordable to do the labor to save money