Very early strut failure

[brainpause]

I installed Monroe Quick Struts on my front end 4/2/24.about 6 months ago, along with control arms and sway bar links. It appears my struts are leaking. I don't abuse this money pit. Why did they fail? I thought Monroe was reputable. I did get alignment at least twice after installation. I'm frustrated because I did the work carefully, and it looks like my car will be on blocks during return of current struts for replacements.

 

[brainpause]

I've tried to upload pictures, but they are too large.

 

[brainpause]

I finally figured out how to upload pictures. This picture is representative of every view of both front struts. I think the tech at the very least misdiagnosed the issue if there is one, and it worst flat out loud trying to get me to replace my 4 month old struts. It doesn't appear there is any fluid coming from the rod / seal area but instead is probably my overzealous greasing of the new sway bar links. Agree? See the attached picture

 

[Joesonic]

Hi brainpause,

Looks like the seal on the swaybar end-link is the issue, too much grease has migrated across the strut cartridge body. Try cleaning up the grease with brake parts cleaner and check back again after a week of driving.

On the other hand, I do not recommend quick struts (even Monroe). The strut mount is usually made from an inferior rubber, the bearing is poor quality, and the spring is not correctly calibrated to the application on any of those quick struts, in my experiences with other cars. It is more time consuming, but purchasing a separate strut cartridge and new mount will yield better ride quality and longevity.

I had great success with the Monroe Sensa-Trac as a separate strut cartridge and a Moog strut mount for my old Saturn.