Took my jalopy in for an alignment yesterday. They tried but couldn't do it because my driver side tie rod nuts were rusted frozen despite hitting them with a blow torch. They of course they recommended replacing both sides despite the passenger side being OK. They also said I should replace the shocks even though they're not leaking and the car bounces right back into position when you try to make a corner of the car bounce; "At This Age And Mileage, They Have To Be Bad". Now I have 258K miles and almost 13 years on all those original parts. I understand the tie rods, but is it really necessary to replace the shocks?

Any thoughts?


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If the shocks seem fine why bother replacing them.

 

Having trouble seeing your picture but the main question is if the tires are showing any signs of cupping or feathering, and as well how well you car handles over bumpers. If it's squirmy and skittish then you certainly will need new shocks. Also when you get on the brakes or go from a dead stop, there should be minimal body roll back and forward. My shocks on the rears were pretty toast by 160K, mostly highway driving. Inner edge was wearing terribly on both rears. Did the front around 180K when I had time, huge difference in how it handles! Also look at your compliance bushings! If they are torn, the front end won't hold an alignment well.

 

I would replace the shock at 200k or more miles. I replace all the shock in my DD lexus at 160k miles and the differences was day and night.

 

Replace the shocks when they fail to perform as they should. If they perform fine, don't replace them.

 

at 258K those shocks are not providing the same quality of ride as when they were new.

 

Of course is not necessary to replace the shocks. It never crossed your mind that the shocks are bad until it was suggested to you by the repair shop and if it was necessary you wouldn't be here asking this question. So the answer is no.

Also you aren't even asking the right questions. You need to ask yourself the following questions...

1. Is the car safe when driving?

2. Am I happy with the ride quality?

3. If not how long do I plan on keeping the car? If it's less than 2 years... Not worth changing the shocks.

4. How many miles a day do I drive and are most of my trips short... Less than 20 miles... No.

5. Am I saving the car to be given to a family member later? If it's yes then probably yes replace the shocks so you can enjoy the better ride quality now and get your money's worth from the investment.

6. What condition is the car in mechanically, paint/body, interior, and overall?

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I also wouldn't replace the shocks until needed. Too many service centers recommend replacement at specific intervals just
to make money off the non-mechanical minded individuals,
Daughter's Maxima had 252,000 miles on the suspension before the right front strut let go, and our '08 knock around
car is at 257,000 miles with the same suspension, except for the left rear LCA that rusted through and the rear hubs that
became worn.

 

if not blown, broken, or providing awful ride, dont change

 

At 258K, I'm going to be honest here, never in the 11 years that I worked on vehicles did I see orignal shocks last remotely that long. Even if they are not leaking, you won't be able to tell they are worn. Certain tire wear, would point to suspension needs attention. The truth of the matter is, NJ roads plus 258K shocks, I would say, they are due for replacement. The springs holds the vehicle up and keeps it up.

 

1. Yes
2. Ride quality seems sort of OK, but could be smoother.
3. Almost 13 years so far - Original owner. Good for at least another 3 to 5 years if I can get away with it.
4. Mileage varies, but on certain days I'm good for 100+
5. No
6. Car is in almost pristine condition. Needs a rear bumper and front seat leather. Runs like its got 30,000 miles on it, in part thanks to regular synthetic oil changes.
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With this new info then your answer is yes, especially if it's not a financial burden. For many reasons, you like or even love your car, it should be cheaper since you are doing other suspension work at the same time, and live a little an enjoy life.

 

Was this at a dealership? I had shocks thrown at me once as a stick when they were hard-up for 3Gs.

 

No. The only time I've dealt with stealerships was for warranty work.
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At that age I would not change the shock unless there are related issues; don't think it's the case here.

 

With all the votes for and against, I'm wondering if I should put this to an AcuraZine vote. I have to admit though, I'm leaning towards replacing 1 pair at a time to see if there's any difference. After all, the car's age is about to hit 13 and the mileage is also getting up there.

And if I do, which would be first? The front or rear pair?
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Any issues with tire feathering? Negative camber? If not, shocks should still be decent.

 

If the tie rods are 'frozen', how are they planning to replace them? Cutting them off?

 

Only 1 was frozen. And yes, Paul, our star mechanic in NJ did exactly that.
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