Bilstein shocks tend to hold up really well. Look for any evidence of leakage, pull them out and test them by hand. You'll know if they are bad. 

As for the warranty, they are not warranted per se to last forever. The lifetime warranty covers defects. If they failed due a defect they will be covered. You will have to work with the supplier to do that. Normal wear or abuse is not. 

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Todd Last
Sent: Saturday, March 20, 2010 10:59 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Speaking about Bilstein shocks....

How can you tell if your Bilstein shocks are in need of replacement & how do you get them replaced under their warranty?

I've had mine for a number of years and I'm noticing quite a bit of dive lately on braking.

Todd

'88 Westy