2006 Accord Strut Replacement
 

I have a 2006 4cyl Accord LX that has 188,000 miles. I have a few questions.
1- Should I replace the springs when I replace the struts?
2- Are there any other components that should be replaced at the same time? ie. bushings etc.
3- I am very mechanically inclined but have never replaced struts. How concerned should I be with compressing the springs? Just thinking saftey here.
4- I was wondering if anyone has tried or had comments on the Monroe quick replacement struts?

Thanks for the advice
Mark

1) Don't have to, but someone said you can get struts with springs for nearly the same price as struts alone. If this is true (for YOUR year car) then it makes sense.

2) Inspect bushings, inspect rubber boots on all balljoints. Don't forget bushings for the anti-roll bars. Strut top-mounts (unless they're included in struts). But nothing strikes me as HAVE TO replace at the same time if they're still OK.

3) If you get struts with the springs already included, then you don't need to do any of that. Otherwise...
Get (rent or borrow) spring compressors - don't makeshift this with ropes & random stuff. They should have safety clips to hold them properly in place. Look at all the safety warnings. Even so, visualize where the parts would fly if the springs let loose & don't put your head in the way of any projectiles.

4) No idea...

Do you REALLY need struts? Or are you just looking at "you gotta replace them every xxxx miles".

Jim:
Thanks for the thoughts.

Good question...Do I REALLY need struts.
I guess the quick answer is I am not sure.
I can tell you the car is not handling the same as it used to. The front end seems to "bounce" or dip more than before. I am starting to feel a very slight vibration at slow speeds that I think is coming from the front end.
I also just assumed after 200,000 miles the struts are probably in need of replacement and this might be a good starting point to help bring the original handling characteristics back to the car.
Before I do anything I will have the front end looked at.
Thanks
Mark

Bouncing IS caused by weak struts, so I guess so. Grab the front bumper & bounce it up & down by hand - get it going then push down one last time & let go. It should come up just a bit higher than the final rest position, then settle without bouncing up & down.