suspension: when to replace?

[Jeremy03Sport]

My 03 4runner has about 160k miles. Never replaced shocks. Wondering if overdue. Not sure there is issue now, though abnormal may now be normal. Do notice some vibe/shudder from 35mph+. Suspension or drive train issue?

Reading comments elsewhere about shocks/struts (not 4runner) only being good for 60kmiles. True in our case as well?

 

[NOVA46]

I just replaced mine and it made a world of difference. Greasing the drive shaft helps with shudder too. And while you're at it, throw in some greasable sway bar bushings to help with roll. My ride quality got a lot better after that

 

[toyotatech84]

The only reason I did my swap was because I got my income tax back. That's the only reason. I had 78k on my Xreas. I'm glad i did since when I did the swap I found a lot of rusty bolts. Broke both my rear shock mounts from the old setup. We had a 06 4runner traded in with 168k miles on all original parts.

 

[ddnww]

I think you're way over due, 90k I did mine.

 

[Jeremy03Sport]

Bump.

 

[wnelax04sr5]

Bump.

what are you looking to get out of this thread?

 

[ebg18t]

My 03 4runner has about 160k miles. Never replaced shocks. Wondering if overdue. Not sure there is issue now, though abnormal may now be normal. Do notice some vibe/shudder from 35mph+. Suspension or drive train issue?

Reading comments elsewhere about shocks/struts (not 4runner) only being good for 60kmiles. True in our case as well?

There is no magic number or miles or years. IMHO if you plan to keep the truck a while I would probably replace the shocks.

Many of the 4Runners I test drove when shopping a few years ago had shot suspension and they were in the 75k mile range. But some still felt ok. Once the shocks start to die you see a few things: ride quality diminishes, springs bounce compared to being dampened, tires start to wear in a pattern that ruins the tire, overall control is sloppy when making averse steering changes, increased body roll, excessive nose dive and rebound when braking hard.

We have no idea if your suspension is shot, after 169k it is probably in need of replacement but thru the internet we just can't tell. For $330 you can replace your existing shocks with Bilsteins that will last the remaining term of your ownership. I hate worn and/or cheap suspension. Every vehicle I have has upgraded suspension. My Audi had the suspension removed when the odometer had less than 1000 miles, custom Ohlins were promptly installed.

 

[norcal2]

I have 160k on my 07 xreas..no problems..i don't live in the rustbelt though so no exteme conditions of temp, salt, etc..and most of my miles are hwy miles. replacement depends on driving conditions, type, climate etc..just my 2c