Outback front struts leaking after 12k miles

[H.W. Stockman]

OK, I haven't been too gentle with this car, and perhaps 10% of my driving
has been on gravel roads. But I've tried not to push it too far, and it has
bottomed-out no more than 5-10 times. I think I took my '82 Omni on rougher
roads.

So I was a bit surprised today to see "wet" spots on both front struts,
after 12300 miles.

I don't see camplaints about leaking struts on 2003 Legacy Outback wagons,
so I assume I must be doing something really wrong.

What?

 

[johninKY]

Seems odd to me also. I don't think the few miles you have driven on
gravel roads caused this condition. I onder if something other than the
struts is causing the "wet spots."

 

[bigjim]

I had a front strut go on my 04 OBW too. Replaced under extended
warranty. I was very disappointed. One would think the suspension on
the outback was heavy duty. I wonder what else they skimped on.

 

[Michael Pardee]

Seems odd to me also. I don't think the few miles you have driven on
gravel roads caused this condition. I onder if something other than the
struts is causing the "wet spots."

And after all, it is called an "Outback."

Mike

 

[Freedom55]

I had a front strut go on my 04 OBW too. Replaced under extended
warranty. I was very disappointed. One would think the suspension on
the outback was heavy duty. I wonder what else they skimped on.

It ain't invincible!

Ron

--
And it really doesn't matter if
I'm wrong I'm right
Where I belong I'm right
Where I belong.

Lennon & McCartney

 

[H.W. Stockman]

OK, is there any obvious option for putting in heavy-duty struts? I see
only options for _lowering_ the vehicle, which I surely don't want to do.