Hi, I've seen ads for strut tower braces that go under the hood. Do these really do anything? They seem pretty expensive for what looks like a piece of metal pipe with a couple of brackets on the ends.

 

Unless you are really pushing your car through corners hard and fast it's like adding a rear spoiler. It might look nice but really isn't doing anything.

They do help add rigidity to the unibody and help maintain proper alignment when cornering hard. There are also braces for the rear shocks and also for under the car to firm up the floor pan.

Some cars come stock with a brace for the front struts, depends on the strength of the body.

Can be seen here: Strut and Chassis Braces

 

I have access to one I need to install. I was told not to expect much outside of hard driving.

 

Regular driving you may not notice much. You should expect the front end to feel a little more sturdy on routine driving. But when tossing it around on the twisties, it will definately feel more planted and in tune with the road. Worth the investment if you ask me.

 

it also depends on the brace... I love my est carbon fiber brace I felt it the difference as soon as I turned out of my driveway.

 

I'll try to get mine on this weekend and let you guys know. I do like to corner a little hard when my cargo area isn't full of junk.

 

I like to corner hard as well, unless I have my dog (Boxer) with me. One time I forgot she was back there....when I saw the feet flip up in the rear view mirror I was reminded. She told me she was pissed by barking at me. It was a rather funny situation at the time...