Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Front Gas-Filled Strut, Venting And Emptying
A - Venting through Drill Holes
-- Secure gas-filled shock absorber vertically in vise, with piston rod facing down.
Wear protective goggles while drilling.
-- Drill a 3 mm hole -arrow A- through the shock absorber outer tube.
Gas escapes when drilling.
-- Continue drilling until the tube inside is drilled through (approximately 25 mm deep).
-- Drill a second hole 6 mm -arrow B- through the outer and inner shock absorber tubes.
-- Hold the shock absorber over appropriate container for catching oil and move the piston rod repeatedly through entire stroke until no more oil flows out.
B - Open with Pipe Cutter
Wear protective goggles when drilling or sawing.
-- Drill a 3 mm hole -arrow- through the shock absorber outer tube or saw through the tube wall.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.