2024-2026 Stellantis Vehicles Shock/Strut Diagnosis TSB

The Stellantis Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 02-002-25 REV. A addresses concerns regarding leaking, noisy, or weak shocks or struts in a wide range of 2024-2026 Stellantis vehicles. This bulletin, issued on September 12, 2025, provides crucial diagnostic and replacement guidelines for technicians. It aims to prevent unnecessary part replacements by clarifying what constitutes a genuine defect versus normal operating conditions. For instance, if you notice your Alfa Romeo Tonale leaking shocks, this document outlines the proper diagnostic steps.

Symptoms of Faulty Shocks or Struts

Owners may notice several indicators that their vehicle's shocks or struts could be experiencing issues. The primary symptoms identified in TSB 02-002-25 REV. A include:

• Leaking shocks or struts: Visible fluid leakage from the shock or strut body. This is a common concern for owners searching for "Alfa Romeo Tonale leaking shocks."
• Noisy shocks or struts: Unusual sounds, such as clunking, squeaking, or rattling, coming from the suspension.
• Weak shocks or struts: A noticeable decrease in ride quality, excessive bouncing, or poor handling, indicating reduced damping capability.

These symptoms suggest a potential need for inspection and diagnosis by a qualified technician.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Stellantis TSB 02-002-25 REV. A includes critical advisories to ensure proper diagnosis and avoid unnecessary repairs:

• "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." The bulletin clarifies that a slight mist or wetness on the shock body, caused by normal oil evaporation and condensation, is not a defect and does not degrade performance. Technicians should monitor these components rather than replacing them.

Diagnosis and Repair Guidelines

This TSB is an "Information Only" bulletin, designed to communicate the correct criteria for diagnosing and replacing shocks and struts. It emphasizes that replacement should only occur if a shock or strut is definitively determined to be defective.

Before any shock or strut replacement, technicians are instructed to:

• Refer to the detailed procedures available in DealerCONNECT's Service Library. These procedures are found under "02 - Front Suspension / Front / Diagnosis and Testing" or "17 - Rear Suspension / Diagnosis and Testing."
• Diagnose each shock or strut separately. This ensures that only truly defective components are identified for replacement.

The bulletin also explains that "misting" on shocks or struts, where the component appears wet, is usually normal. This occurs due to the evaporation of shock fluid under heat, which then condenses on the shock body. A small amount of shock oil is necessary on the rod for lubrication. Excessive fluid runs or drips, however, indicate damage to the rod or sealing system and warrant further investigation. This guidance is particularly relevant for owners concerned about their Alfa Romeo Tonale leaking shocks.

Post-Replacement Break-In Period

After a new shock or strut is installed, its performance will change over time as it breaks in. Stellantis advises that a break-in period of approximately 160 km (100 miles) is required for the new component to normalize. Any initial difference in performance between the left and right sides of the vehicle should balance out during this period.

Superseded Bulletin Information

This TSB 02-002-25 REV. A supersedes the previous Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 02-002-25, which was issued on May 21, 2025. The current revision includes updated vehicle years, additional vehicle models, and market notes, with all revisions highlighted by asterisks in the original document. Owners searching for information related to the older TSB 02-002-25 should refer to this updated bulletin.

NHTSA Source Citation: NHTSAID 11023168