98' Boxster Struts, Shocks, replacement advise
 

Hello everyone,

I recently noticed that my car rides have been getting bumpier and rougher. I am sure that it is time to change a couple of parts for my ride.

I need some advice from those who are a bit more parts savvy than I am.
Although I am sure that I should be changing parts, I am not certain what those parts should be.

Should I be changing the struts, or coils?


What brands would you recommend if I do need to change said parts?

I am actually in the same situation now with needing new parts. How many miles are on the car?
Do you have any shaking of the steering wheel? Do you hear any noises...creaks going over speed bumps at low speed? Have you checked the inside tread of front and rear tires?
Answering those questions narrows down what you may need to replace.
Normally springs are not replaced unless damaged or rusted badly. If you want to lower your car, now would be the best time to swap out the OE springs for lowered springs.
Bumpy, rough ride is more than likely from worn struts. I always felt the ride on the Boxster was rough, however it wasn't until I happen to look at the inside tread of my front and rear tires and noticed that the tread was wearing more on the inside than the outside, which normally is a sign of the struts wearing and not supporting the vehicle enough that it allows the suspension to sag and you get wear on the inside of the tires. Harder to see on Boxster I noticed because of how low the car so I had to turn wheel lock to lock to see the wear. For the rear I had to literally get up under the car to see.
Also depending on mileage, you may need new control arms/ball joints if you are getting shaking at highway speed in the steering wheel. Tie rods would also be an area to check as well.
As for brands it seems like either Bilstein or Koni for Struts is what I have found.

How many miles are on your car, PorscheKD986? If it’s over 80,000 miles, it may be time to rebuild the suspension, which would include struts, lower control arms, trailing arms, sway bar links, and possibly tie-rod ends and strut bearings. Is your suspension making any noises? That would help determine what other parts may need replacement.

Redciv1, wear on the inside tread of the tire (especially the tears) is normal on these cars, it’s not necessarily an indication of worn out parts.