I noticed a large wet spot in my garage and also in the parking spot that I use everyday at work. It is located underneath the driver's side rear shock. Looking underneath revealed that the lower half of the shock was completely wet with an oily substance. I have not noticed any difference in ride quality.
Is the shock shot?
If so, could I replace it myself?
Should I replace both rears at the same time?
What is the average cost for this type of job?

Thanks.

 

Always do both shocks if one is needed and if it's leaking to the point of dripping, yeah I'd say replace them.

 

Yea, if it's dripping, it's definatly done for. Shock for the most part are easy to replace.

 

Check rear brake hose/line in that area too. Never know when a pinhole happens and shoots a little fluid...

 

Thanks. I didn't think to check the brake line.


If it does end up being the shock, I found the Monroe Sensa-Trac rear shock at Advance Auto for $32 each. Sound like a good deal?

 

I've used the Sensatrac in the past and liked them.

 

Sensatrac or KYB are about your only inexpensive choices.

As for changing them yourself it should be a quick easy change as long as you have a way to safely get the car off the ground and supported as you will want to pull the tires in the rear.....

As a rule you should always replace shocks in pairs.

 

Thanks for the info on the shocks. I'm hoping that's it is the shock.

I do have a floor jack and two jack stands, so I should be able to replace them myself although I've never had to replace shocks before, so this will be a first for me. * crosses fingers *

 

i just replaced the stock shocks last week with the monroe brand and the ride is MUCH better....

 

Man, I love this site! I just got my car back from it's first service/oil change at the dealership and it said "rear shocks leaking bad...suggest replacement". Of course they'd be happy to do it for me...$265.50+tax please! No thanks, I'll do it myself :) Does anyone happen to have pics of this process?