Struts need replaced at 80K

[analogkid]

I took my 04 4Runner in for it's annual state inspection, and it failed as they said 3 of the 4 struts were leaking (both rear, left front)
I browsed these forums, and did some google searches, and this doesn't seem to be a problem with the 04 ( I did read it was a problem in the 90s)
This doesn't seem right to me. IS there a TSB or something else on this? I'm not thrilled with the local dealers, and the one I called said they never heard of this and wanted over a grand to replace all 4. Local guy is doing it later this week for $600.
I do tow with the vehicle on the weekends for 6 months out of the year, but I'm only towing about 1300#s and the tongue weight is about 130#. I towed the same trailer with a Maxima and it had over 130K miles on it before I traded it for the 4Runner, and it had 0 problems so I would be surprised if towing had anything to do with it.
Thanks in advance.

 

[toto]

It's a little early but not that uncommon for shocks to start leaking around that age. It really doesn't have anything to do with a certain vehicle or model year. Your 4Runner is a lot heavier than a Maxima, though.

There's no way a dealer has never heard of shocks leaking. They were just playing stupid and quoted an outrageous price.

 

[004Gunner]

:iagree: Except I don't think the dealer was playing stupid. I had a rear shock start leaking at 60K and was more than happy to replace them with Bilsteins.

 

[wolfgang]

Man, what state actually checks for leaky struts? I could see leaky brake cylinders but not leaky struts. Spray degreaser on them and take it back for a reinspection.

 

[cknsls@adelphia]

Leaky Struts

Man, what state actually checks for leaky struts? I could see leaky brake cylinders but not leaky struts. Spray degreaser on them and take it back for a reinspection.

It has been proven in tests that braking distance increases with weak suspension.

In a sudden stop situation with very weak struts/shocks the tire will skip on the road surface.