LexuZ786

hey guys,

my rear struts blew out due to heavy subs n new rims.

so i called toyota of naperville and got a quote for $705. Lexus wanted $840. lol

I called my mechanic and he said $300 for the rear but with Monroe struts. Anyone have experience with this brand? He said he would call me tomorrow about pricing with oem struts

Any brands suggested to maintain smooth ride?

Thanks

msekanha

If you want to maintain smoothness, don't go with monroe.

Stay all original, man.

hypervish

KYB is the closest you will get to OE. KYB is the OEM so the ride will be very similar.

LeX2K

From first hand experience, things are the opposite of what you'd think. The KYB's are more firm (some think too harsh) compared to the OE struts. Monroe OESpectrum are very close to original. Yes KYB is the original supplier for these parts, but the replacements from KYB (not the parts you buy at a Lexus or Toyota dealer) are more on the firm side for whatever reason.

hypervish

There are two reasons why KYB are more firm:
1. Aftermarket KYB's are made to pick up slack from the old springs and other worn suspension components, because of this they are stiffer.
2. KYB makes the struts for Toyota when the vehicle is first produced, these struts are different that the one's they sell directly to us, because the struts they created for Toyota are built to Toyota's specifications not to their aftermarket lineup.

The closest you will get to original is IMO, Gabriel Ultra. They ride extremely soft, and give you a Lexus ride. The reason I did not mention the Gabriel's is because like other aftermarket strut brands they don't have a very long life. It's really a hit and miss, but for the time they don't leak they ride amazing.

Your best bet is to get KYB because they will undoubtedly last longer than Gabriel, Monroe, etc. They will provide a comparable ride to stock once they are settled in, and IMO you will be happy with the purchase.

LeX2K

Agreed with everything except about the KYB's settling in to about the OEM ride. I installed a set in a Camry about 3 years ago, they never mellowed to what the originals were, still quite a bit firmer.