Front Shock Absorber Disposal

2008 Mazda 6 s Sport, 4D Hatchback, StandardSECTION Front Shock Absorber Disposal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda 6 and 2003 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING: Whenever drilling into a shock absorber, wear protective eye wear. The gas in the shock absorber is pressurized, and could spray metal chips into the eyes and face when drilling.
  1. Clamp a shock absorber on a flat surface or with the piston pointing downwards.
  2. Drill a 0.08-0.12" (2-3 mm) hole at a point 0.8-1.2" (20-30 mm) from the bottom of the tube, so that the gas can escape.
    Fig 1: Drilling Shock Absorber
    G00375834Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  3. Turn the hole downwards.
  4. The oil can be collected by moving the piston rod several times up and down and cutting the tube at the end.
  5. Dispose of waste oil according to the waste disposal law.
NOTE: Shock absorber gas is nitrogen gas.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.