Hans55

Hi,
I have seen a lot of threads on this issue, but I need some advice. I have a 2001 s55 AMG and the left front strut leaks and drops down after about 20 minutes. However, as soon as I start the engine and put it in gear it pops right back up. Before I start taking apart the front end or before buying new strut, is there anything I should look for? Where could the leak be and if I find the leak, can it be repaired? Just looking for a way out besides buying new struts!

cal1

I hope someone else will pop in and give you better news, but if you are certain it is the left front strut, then you have few options. I do not think a seal kit is made for our ABC struts. Certainly do some searches on Arnott replacement struts if you have not. I have only heard good things about them and they are cheaper than OEM. Also, if you do the strut replacement, the car will need to put through "rodeo" which I believe is performed through MBs Star Diagnostic System (SDS).

Good luck

richvegas

research rebuilding the valve block. it may not be the strut. i just rebuilt my valve block last night and it seems to be holding

Welwynnick

Is there any oil leaking out of the strut?

What's more likely is degraded or contaminated seals in the front valve block. Read this thread (or several others) to see how to service the valve block:

https://mbworld.org/forums/s-class-w...03-s600-8.html

Nick

jnash

Doing a full fluid flush may fix it by removing debris in the valves but if that doesn't I would agree with the others that the valve block needs rebuilding. There are threads on here on what o-ring kits to buy and how to clean out the block. If you are not up for that, then buy and install a new block.

w4sim

My car was doing the exact thing on the rear left strut. I almost purchased a new strut before stumbling on to the valve block issue.

Cleaned out the rear valve block, no more problems since.