First question:

What exactly is the little shock absorber on the steering linkage for on my C230? It appears to be leaking fluid. If I replace it will I notice any difference?

Second question:

Is there a good way to test my shocks to see if they need replacement? The car has 134,000 miles now which is quite a lot, but I suppose it is possible they are still OK. The only problem I notice is when I go over a speed bump (not that fast) I hear a little "chirp" sound. Not sure where it is coming from though.

Thanks,

Mike

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1998 C230 330,000 miles (currently dead of second failed EIS, yours will fail too, turning you into the dealer's personal human cash machine)
1988 F150 144,000 miles (leaks all the colors of the rainbow)
Previous stars: 1981 Brava 210,000 miles, 1978 128 150,000 miles, 1977 B200 Van 175,000 miles, 1972 Vega (great, if rusty, car), 1972 Celica, 1986.5 Supra