byrddanick

Auto repair shop told me the front left strut is leaking oil and needs to be replaced. Told me that I would also have to replace the front right strut at the same time (nothing is wrong with it). How can I be sure the strut is leaking oil? Must the other front strut be replaced at the same time? I have only 115k on this great car. Never been wrecked and is in magnificent shape. Thanks so much.

co4wheel

You don't need to confirm they are leaking. They wore out miles and miles ago. Just replace all four if you are planning on keeping the GX a while.

bbrowncods

How does it drive?
Do you trust them? It is a common scam to squirt oil on the strut and call it bad, and say the other side needs to be change to keep them "even".

But the previous poster is pretty much right on. Struts and shocks gradually wear out and manifest themselves in a poor ride.
I use the bounce test to check if struts are really BAD - Push down on the bumper and release repeatedly to get the front to "bounce" up and down. Let go, and count how many times it bounces up and down on its own. If it goes up and down more than 2 times you probably need to replace them as soon as practical. Repeat on the back.
This is not scientific and is a decision based on your judgment.

BradTank

Its pretty common for shops to say "your struts are leaking" in order to drum up business, especially if you went in there for a $19 oil change. That's the reason for the oil change, they lose money (or maybe break even) on it but its about the potential sales opportunity. They also are always trying to sell a brake job, even if you have years left on your pads.

That doesn't mean on your particular car struts aren't leaking, but I would definitely be suspicious.

If you do decide to replace, replace them in pairs.

Dallasguy1

Mine were leaking oil at 90k miles rear ones, replaced them with 4Runner oem Toyota part for 90$ both and 100$ labor.