I just replaced all 4 struts on my car. After a 400 mile trip, I'm convinced the ride is harsher/harder than before the struts were replaced. It seemed like everyjoint in the highway generated areaction, especially Route 78 in Eastern PA.[:-]

What was missed when the repair was done?

I don't want to go back and yell, but that was hard-earned money I just spent to keep the car running[sm=dontgetit.gif]

Thanks

 

did you stay stock?

 

I was afraid you'd ask that question - is this a BMW forum? [&o]

Actually, I had the work done at Sears. They used Monroe Sensatrac struts.

 

haha...why do you ask?

I am not sure what else to ask you. Others here know much more than me!

What led you to replace them in the first place? I never replaced them on my 94...and i drove the car from 28k to 231k.

 

I think you did the right thing not replacing them.

Actually, I noticed the suspension was starting to sound like an old New York City Taxi cab. Also, the rear end could be pushed down way more than I ever remember.

BTW, I remember a Honda repair guy telling me the struts on the Honda's last forever.

 

the only suspension component i ever replaced on it was the upper control arms cause the ball joints went, and they were one unit.

made a nice clunking noise over bumps at slow speed.

 

My girlfriend had those shocks put on her civic. When you say harsh, do you mean its not bouncy anymore and now its stiff? I noticed her ride stiffened up a bunch and didn't bounce like crazy over speed bumps.

 

Good question, now how to explain.

I'd characterize the current ride as a "seat of the pants" feelwhen seams on the highway are encountered.[&:] Before, it was simply tire sounds when the car went over the seams. Also, I always felt the car had a relatively comfortable ride - now it's tending more to taxicab back seat.

Let me know if this helps - if not, I'll try to give you more details.

Thanx

 

well, when shocks get worn out their rebound rate decreases. This just means that they get bouncy and that equates to comfortable. kinda like riding in grandmas Buick. This bounce is not good for 1) handling 2) safety 3) your tires.Be glad its stiffened up...

 

The ride doesn't seem anything like when the car was new - am I expecting the wrong outcome from the strut replacement?

What about worn upper strut mounts? Is this something that should be checked?

BTW, two thumbs up on your ride!