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Originally Posted by chromecarz00
I heard that the 01-04 S suspension is compatible and an upgrade - any thoughts on this?
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The S suspension is very similar to the base M030 suspension - a bit firmer and slightly lower ride height.
Quote:
Originally Posted by chromecarz00
Is a full suspension replacement even necessary at this mileage, or can (should) I just get away with replacing the rear struts?
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At 20 years and 100K miles, your suspension is "well worn" at best and "completely worn out" at worst. Where it falls within that range depends on how hard a life it led over those 20 years.
Could you just replace the rear struts? Sure, that will address the immediate problem and keep you going for a few more years. But in general, most cars will need a full suspension refresh by about 120K miles.
The bottom line is that it depends on what you want, when you want to spend the money, and if you plan to keep the car long-term. If you want the car to handle like new, don't mind spending the money, or plan to keep the car long-term, then a full suspension refresh is certainly due. Otherwise, if you don't want to invest the money and can live with it "as is" for a few more years or you don't plan on keeping the car long-term, then just replace the rear struts.
Quote:
Originally Posted by chromecarz00
As far as other parts to replace, any suggestions - bushings, control arms, etc?
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When you do decide to address the suspension, replace everything that has a rubber bushing (control arms, track arm, toe arm, sway bar bushings, drop links, upper shock mounts, etc). This is what I mean by a full suspension re-fresh. Do a search, many others have done this and have provided advice on parts, tools, and tips.