When repair is right
If the internal damper is healthy and only the air spring leaks, replacing the spring gives close to new life at a fraction of the cost. Same with the valve block — a seal kit usually does it.
When replacement is necessary
If the damper is leaking oil, the body is corroded, or the strut is a sealed combined unit (as on some Porsche models). There, repair is a temporary patch at best.
The grey area: the compressor
A weak compressor may or may not be saved by a rebuild kit. We measure fill time and current draw and decide on numbers, not impressions.
How to tell the advice is honest
An honest garage gives you both prices, explains the expected life difference, and shows you the failed part. If someone quotes four struts without a pressure test, ask them to explain why.
Our rule: repair when the repair delivers close to new life, replace when the body is tired. Either way you know both prices before we start.
Related service: Hydraulic Suspension Repair