My 2010 4runner limited front suspension struts start leaking. It is part of X-REAS. I am trying to find out if I can replace it myself. But google shows every single article is talking about replacing it with the standard strut and remove/abandon the X-REAS.

I understand people don't like it or it is too expensive/difficult to replace it while keeping X-REAS. But why nobody even tried? Or I didn't search correctly?

If you guys have any DIY information, could you please share it here?

Thanks,

I'm a little confused about your question. Are you wanting to replace the front struts with new XREAS struts or replace them with standard struts but not have to remove the XREAS system?

Xreas is a gas over hydraulic system so if you replace a shock that has leaked it has probably leaked out the gas which would need to be recharged. My xreas system had no gas in it when I replaced it with Bilsteins and I didn't even know it. The shocks are very pricey too, so going to a standard shock arrangement is much more cost effective and you lose no performance in my opinion.

Keeping my X-REAS

Fixing XREAS suspension

Toyota 4-Runner X-REAS Shocks - Shockwarehouse.com

https://www.shockwarehouse.com/news/...structions.pdf

Remove and reinstall XREAS front shocks

I replaced both of my leaky X-Reas struts on 2004 Sports without any issues. If your leak is minimal and has not being leaking long you can replace just struts since these disconnect at check valve and keeps the rest of system sealed while you disconnect and reconnect. GL

I think x-reas struts can only be OEM. So I checked with Toyota dealer today. They quote me $500 for one only. It is so pricy, even like you said reconnect may work, but 2 for $1000 and that's just parts.

Don't use local dealer unless they match national online Toyota parts retailers.

$ 273 on partznet.com
48510-80500 - Shock Absorber - 2010-2020 Toyota 4Runner | Conicelli Toyota of Conshohock

It is your call whether replace 2 front ones for about $600 both or get whole new 4 corner aftermarket system which easily will put you over $2000. I kept my and saved both money and XREAS.

Thanks. But are these shocks for X-REAS? The image doesn't look X-REAS compatible as it does have an extra connect point to the oil pipe. Or it is just sample image?

Just image, non XREAS struts sell for $128 on that site.

Also call them with your vin number to be 100% sure about correct part #

Also, to replace x-reas strut, do you need to lift the entire truck since they are cross-linked? Or you can lift one wheel at a time?

Just lift a corner you are working on. Only disconnect at check valves to prevent fluid loss.

Thanks for everyone's reply. My 4runner is 11 years old and 167k km on it already. Also in here, winter salt road also brings lots of rust on the bottom. I am now rethinking: Should I pay a premium price for X-REAS or simply switch to a normal strut system.

I guess the basic 4runner SR5 modules come without KDSS nor X-REAS (correct me if I am wrong). They are just normal suspension/struts. Who drove them still feels good enough on the highway and the inner city?

this is tough to answer because people have different driving styles and types of road traveled as well as different preferences

personally I think when XREAS is working it is great. the truck does feel great cornering, body roll is greatly reduced and it feels really good. off-road capabilities are not compromised. you will likely notice a difference in driving with standard suspension. more body roll and probably more nose dive when braking. maybe you're fine with this, maybe you're not. do you drive more spirited or are you a cruiser?

many opt for a bilstein set up when scrapping XREAS, some say it has a similar feel. I think if you do off-roading and don't want XREAS look at bilstein 5100

I have a limited with XREAS. I replaced all 4 corners earlier this year due to a misting absorber in the rear at 155k miles (I figured the rest were going to be on their way out eventually). I considered bilstein but they were all out everywhere and I didn't want to wait. go test drive an sr5 and see if you can feel the difference between a new sr5 and new limited with XREAS. if you replace XREAS you will basically have a brand new suspension

I have a 2019 with 44,459 miles and was told shock in rear is leaking. I took pictures but everything I find people say get rid of it. I don’t want to, I love how my car drives. I only do street driving, and my husband wants to do the work themselves but can not find any pictures or videos showing how to replace shock only. Dealer would only Goto $2300 to replace front left and rear right! And extended Warranity won’t cover. I drove a srd before buying as a test drive, I could tell difference right away. Everyone says go with bielstein and fj cruiser stuff. I’m afraid it will not be the same. Spent to much money buying this car to have it not drive like it has been . I’m very frustrated and need help.