QuestionI have a '99 Outback Legacy with about 90K miles and recently discovered that I'm riding with the original struts.
I never thought much about car's ride quality so I was slightly surprised.
So on that note I have the following questions:
1) Does the ride quality determine when one should replace their struts? Or is this determination based simply mileage?
2) How much does a full strut replacement cost if I determine that they need replacement?
AnswerI work for a dealership and we have a very different opinion on this one than most tire shops. Obviously, I think we are right, but they think there opinion is right. I generally think shocks should be replaced only if they leak, or if they fail the bounce test. Bounce the car down by pushing on the bumper in the corners of the car. When you stop bouncing the car, the car should go down and up one time then stop. If it keeps bouncing, maybe its time to replace the struts. If it doesn't then I think it is not. We replace very, very, very few shocks and struts. And since we like to replace parts for money, I think it is safe to say we really don't think most people need shocks and struts.
Now, in my opinion, your car would look better if you had a paint job. Does it need it? Probably not. Would your car handle better with new struts? Probably. Does it need them? Probably not.
Cost is another big thing. About $600 bucks using Subaru parts and getting an alignment done. I would make sure my 90,000 mile service was up to date, and get ready for a timing belt at 105,000 miles and also get ready to maybe spend money on oil leaks that may be just around the corner.
Good luck.
Z
