2023-2025 Stellantis Shock & Strut Diagnosis Guidelines

Stellantis has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 02-002-25, titled "Shock And Strut Diagnosis And Replacement Guidelines," to assist technicians in properly identifying and addressing issues with shocks and struts across a wide range of its 2023-2025 vehicles. This TSB is particularly relevant for owners experiencing symptoms such as leaking, noisy, or weak shocks or struts, and it helps ensure correct diagnosis before replacement.

For instance, if you're experiencing a 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale shock strut diagnosis, this bulletin outlines the criteria technicians should follow. The TSB emphasizes that only defective shocks or struts should be replaced, and it provides important clarification on what constitutes a defect versus normal operation.

Symptoms of Shock and Strut Issues

Owners may notice several symptoms indicating potential problems with their vehicle's shocks or struts. The primary customer symptoms addressed by TSB 02-002-25 are "Leaking, noisy, or weak shocks or struts." These issues can affect ride comfort, handling, and overall vehicle stability. If you observe any of these signs, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified service technician.

Understanding Shock and Strut Misting

The TSB provides crucial information regarding what might appear to be a leak but is actually a normal condition known as misting. Misting occurs when shock fluid evaporates from the rod under heated conditions and then condenses on the shock body. This is a normal process, as a certain amount of shock oil is necessary to lubricate the rod.

It's noted that some misting accumulation is normal and does not degrade ride performance. Excessive runs and drips, however, are different and typically indicate damage to the rod or sealing system. Misting is more likely to be observed at higher mileages due to accumulation over time.

Important Warnings for Owners

Stellantis includes specific warnings in TSB 02-002-25 that are critical for owners and technicians:

• "Do not replace any other shocks or struts because one is defective." This means that if only one shock or strut is found to be faulty, only that specific component should be replaced, not the entire set.
• "Do not replace components for normal oil evaporation (misting). Continue to monitor these components." This warning directly addresses the misting phenomenon, advising against unnecessary replacements for what is a normal operational characteristic.

These guidelines aim to prevent unnecessary repairs and ensure that resources are focused on genuinely defective components.

Diagnosis and Repair Process

Before any shock or strut replacement, technicians are instructed to perform detailed diagnostic procedures. The TSB directs them to refer to the comprehensive procedures available in DealerCONNECT > Service Library, specifically under "02 - Front Suspension / Front / Diagnosis and Testing" or "17 - Rear Suspension / Diagnosis and Testing." Each shock or strut must be diagnosed separately to accurately identify the source of the problem. This thorough approach ensures that the correct component is identified and addressed, preventing misdiagnosis.

Post-Replacement Break-in Period

After a new shock or strut is installed, there is an important break-in period. The TSB states that the performance of a new shock or strut will change over time and normalize after approximately 160 km (100 mi) of driving. Any initial differences in performance between the left and right-hand sides should balance out during this period. Owners should be aware of this break-in period and allow their vehicle to be driven for the specified distance before evaluating the final performance of the new components.

Owner Action

If you suspect your 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale or other affected Stellantis vehicle has "Leaking, noisy, or weak shocks or struts," it is recommended to schedule an inspection with an authorized Stellantis service center. They will follow the guidelines outlined in TSB 02-002-25 to properly diagnose the issue and perform any necessary repairs.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11018676, TSB 02-002-25