Strut Assembly: Inspection

Check for the following and replace the strut if necessary:
1. Attach a handle to the piston rod, then collapse and expand the strut at least three times.
2. Verify that operation is smooth, continuous, and does not change with each stroke.
3. Verify that there is no unusual noise from within the strut.
Fig 1: Inspecting Strut Operation
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.