hi all, my 98 s70 is taking city streets hard and highway roads feel like i'm riding a magic carpet sometimes. so i'm looking to replace the front struts and rear shocks. the latter job i am going to try on my own (seems easier) while i will probably buy the strut parts on my own and take them in to my mechanic.

obviously there are several articles online detailing these fixes, including to stay away from some of the "kits" that even FCP Groton offers. can anyone rec what parts or other areas while in there that I ought to buy in addition to the struts and shocks?

also, on Groton I noticed that the OEM struts and shocks are substantially cheaper than the Koni, Bilstein, etc. parts. why is that? I plan on going all OEM in these areas anyway.

thanks!

 

There is a chance that you only need struts and shocks. The best thing to do is take the car to an alignment shop and ask them to check your alignment and suspension parts. If they find anything that needs to be replaced, they will be glad to give you a list.

Most of the after maket parts are more expensive because they are specialty parts and better quality. However, the better quality often changes the way the car rides and handles which may not appeal to you.

 

ALWAYS replace the spring seats (OEM XC90 or IPD HD only) if they are more than 10,000 miles old
Check the bearing plates after they're removed
For the rear, new shock mounts and the plastic bump stops

 

If you have a lot of play in the steering both the inner and outer tie rod ends. If you have a clunking type noise when you hit a pot hole or even small bump sway bar end links. The strut mounts and spring seats are a known thing as well. I have replaced every front end suspension part on mine. It just takes time and tools.