2002 S80 front suspension repair dilemma (105k miles)

chrisbruck · Post by **chrisbruck** » 18 Feb 2010, 09:36

Ok,
Got some bad clunking sounds from the front right. I know the spring seat is broken and needs to be replaced. The front struts themselves seem fine.

Spring seats only at the dealer = $720 total for both
Spring seats at local shop = $556.00 total for both
Spring seats + new struts from local shop = $815.00 for both
Spring seats + new struts from dealer = $1,150.00 for both

Here is my dilemma:
The dealer says it's rare to have to replace the struts unless they are leaking or got bent. I actually trust and like my dealer but don't want to get the phone call saying, "btw, you do need new struts after all".

How likely are the front struts to be worn out and need replacing? The car rides fine and doesn't seem extra floaty. Peace of mind says, just replace them and be done, but I hate spending money on something that isn't broken.

Any thoughts??

Post by **boosted5cyl** » 18 Feb 2010, 10:34

Thats a toughie. The only issue is if DO you end up replacing the struts during your ownership of the car then you will have to pay labor for a second time.

I vote go with the whole lot done at the local shop. Granted the struts arent leaking (thats not to say they won't) and its probably early to do them, but do you want to pay for the labor all over again?

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 18 Feb 2010, 13:57

boosted5cyl wrote: I vote go with the whole lot done at the local shop. Granted the struts arent leaking (thats not to say they won't) and its probably early to do them, but do you want to pay for the labor all over again?

+1. At 105K, the struts are gone or getting ready to go. Don't pay for the labor twice.

chrisbruck · Post by **chrisbruck** » 18 Feb 2010, 19:42

I've decided to have the local shop replace the struts along with the spring seats. Peace of mind and hopefully no more clunking noises.