Struts or KDSS

[Woofer]

Hi folks,

My 2012 Trail, with around 130k kms on the odometer, has been feeling really soft lately whenever I hit any sort of bump or anything uneven on roads (I don't offroad so can't say what that would be like). My best descriptor is that the vehicle feels like it is wallowing. It is definitely not the same firm ride I experienced previously. I think this came on over the winter but I really noticed it when I swapped my winter tires back to the summer setup and started driving on snow and ice free roads again.

My best guess is that it is time to swap out the struts and springs, so I have been looking at options there. As the Trail has KDSS it occurs to me that perhaps there is something off with the KDSS. The truck corners quite well, so I have been discounting that but honestly I don't know much about how KDSS works to be able to tell if that is even worth looking at. Does anyone know what common symptoms of KDSS malfunction are? I have not checked my code reader yet, which I guess I should (I am not home right now so that will have to wait a couple of days).

All I know is that the truck feels "off". Before I plunk down a bunch of cash for new struts and springs I thought it would be helpful to hear from anyone who knows the 4Runner much better than I do... Thanks!

 

[NeilYoung]

Pop in some Bilstein 5100's , approx $450 and call it a day. I doubt the you have kdss issues.

 

[Woofer]

Thanks.

 

[To_fire]

If you have a problem with the kdss, the warning light would illuminate. When you turn the key and all of the warning lights come on, check to see that the kdss light illuminates and turns off. If it does this then the system is ok, and you probably just need new shocks. 5100s fit inside the stock springs, so you could go that route.

 

[Woofer]

If you have a problem with the kdss, the warning light would illuminate. When you turn the key and all of the warning lights come on, check to see that the kdss light illuminates and turns off. If it does this then the system is ok, and you probably just need new shocks. 5100s fit inside the stock springs, so you could go that route.

Thanks. No warning lights as far as I can tell. I have a code reader so will dig that out and see if it shows anything. I am skeptical on KDSS issues in any case, but want to be sure before I fork out for struts.

I am considering the 5100s, so just need to find a shop that will install them. Is there any point in changing the springs as well?

 

[To_fire]

Thanks. No warning lights as far as I can tell. I have a code reader so will dig that out and see if it shows anything. I am skeptical on KDSS issues in any case, but want to be sure before I fork out for struts.

I am considering the 5100s, so just need to find a shop that will install them. Is there any point in changing the springs as well?

If you like the current ride quality, then you don't have to change springs. If you're going to add weight (bumper, winch, skids, sliders, rack, tent, etc., then consider purchasing a spring with a higher spring rate (stiffer), and a longer spring if you plan to add lift.

 

[NeilYoung]

Noticed a few responses from the Toronto area. It was a harsh winter, more road salt used than normal. A reminder to clean out the kdss control valve assembly located underneath small skid plate below driver’s side door and spray with anti rust spray. You'll see the two 12mm bolts outside of the frame rails. From what I've read on the forum, this area is prone to rust.

 

[johnnygraphic]

Agreed on most of the posts above. Doubtful that the issue is with the KDSS as problems with that system would cause a lot of body roll thru the corners. In all likelihood, it is the shocks. You could check to see if there is any oil leaking out of the shocks. It would look wet. Also suggest looking at the Bilstein 5100's. Excellent quality and they are a known quantity.

Shop around in the area for a shop that specializes in off-road repairs/upgrades. They will be most familiar with swapping suspension bits.

All the best!

 

[Woofer]

Thanks, all, for the replies and insight.

I will minimally swap the struts, likely go with the Bilstein 5100s as that seems like a good option for my needs--I don't offroad and I no longer drive on the kinds of roads that made the truck so useful and fun for me initially (poor quality dirt roads that turned to deep mush with rain and were potholed and uneven the rest of the time). It is basically a city these days.

I am tempted by the Eibach Pro Truck 2 setup, but I don't want a lift--or much of one--and there is no extra weight on the back of the truck so it does not seem well suited for me. I like the look of the Dobinson's setup someone posted on the Dobinson thread, but it also sees like overkill and there is a minimum 8-week lead time to get them from Krave in Calgary, which is too long for me.

So, yeah, 5100s in all likelihood and just deciding if I want to change the springs with the same stock ones while I am at it.

 

[Woofer]

To update my query:

I ended up going with the Bilstein 6612 strut + spring kit for the front and the 5100s with the original springs on the rear. I took it to a local shop for the installation. The bolts on the front mounts were corroded and seized, which is likely due to the harsh winter conditions where I live but otherwise everything was as expected.

I am very happy with how the truck handles. The ride seems a touch harsher, perhaps, but feels really precise. I had the fronts set at the first setting. I forgot to measure before the install but my best guess is that the lift is about 1 inch. It looks nice! I mostly drive in the city these days, and do not offroad at all, so maybe a little overkill on the 6112s but no regrets. No complaints about any of it, to be honest.

I also had the engine guard/plate swapped out as it was badly corroded. I bought the Greenlane Offroad full-engine skid plate with the black powder coating. It looks good and Greenlane seem to make quality products.