Recently bought a 05 TL with 160k on the odometer and there is a leak in the front struts and it was recommended I replace them. I was wondering if it would be a better idea to just replace the front struts with new OEM ones and how much that would be? Or just go for it with some sub $1k coilovers in a month or two.

 

What I did: I went with some tein springs and koni shocks. That way I know I have quality parts even though I lose adjustability and it was basically just as expensive as coilovers. I found that spring rate on most coilovers looked very high so that impacted my decision also. Koni has a lifetime warranty on their shocks also (which I already used once painlessly).

I know tein makes some good entry level coilovers also.

OEM shocks will probably end up being just as expensive (not sure). You'll keep a more comfortable ride though but wont get your ride height lower. Reliability should be very good with OEM shocks.

All your options have some good and some bad about them, you just need to know what your priorities are.

 

If you have access to a wall-mounted spring compressor, I'd recommend getting OEM dampers. The dampers are maybe $117 each for a 05 TL. Replacing the dampers can be very dangerous when using the auto-part rental compressors. Do a search on you-tube, scary stuff. I replaced my dampers with Koni orange a few years ago. Next time, I'll just get the OEM assembly. There were some modifications I needed to make to ensure the Koni fit correctly (spacing washers) that were not in the instructions.

If you do not have access to a wall-mounted spring compressor, I'd recommend getting the full OEM assembly (damper plus spring and other rubber parts). The assemblies are $203 each and you just remove the old and install the new.

https://www.acurapartswarehouse.com/...ber.html?PNC=2

 

I'd just get some KYB dampers off rockauto and replace it, no need for coilovers