Wes45

I need new front shocks after 149K miles, and I'm not willing to try cheap quick struts nor do I believe I need to spend another $200 for new OEM springs. After a bit of research, here are my top 2 solutions:
1. KYB Excel-G kit for $349 on eBay, includes all the strut parts except springs, would reuse my existing springs.
2. Lexus OEM parts, $665 plus $35 shipping for all the strut parts except springs, would reuse my existing springs.

From a ride quality and ease of installation for a DIY'er, is it worth spending twice the amount and going with the OEM Lexus parts or would you go the KYB route and save $350? I'm thinking we'll be keeping the car for a few more years.
Either way, it sure beats the $1,200 dealer estimate to only replace the shock absorber part of the strut assembly.
Thanks for your input.

ThumperPup

I Have used Monroe Quick Struts on my vehicle I am not disapointed with them but not as happy as i was with OEM.
last time i replaced was at 120k i have 190 now they seem to still be good with 70k on them
when they need to be replaced next i will go with the KYB
are you saying that KYB will cost you 349 each side with the parts except the springs or are you saying it would be 349 for both sides and all parts accept springs ?

Wes45

There is a kit on eBay for $350 that includes all the parts to build a strut assembly for both sides of the front except for the springs. That seemed to be a decent deal, I'm guessing the OEM springs off the car would work on that set-up just fine? I would have posted the link but think that may not be permitted here. I also found a great place for prices on Lexus OEM parts that was $50 cheaper than the other place I have used before.

Clutchless

You usually do not need all those parts. Replace the struts, the strut mount bearings and move on. Get OEM strut mount bearings, and KYB struts if you want to save money and have less worries. Are you doing the work yourself?

I would inspect your old struts first. If the spring seat is not torn, re-use it, most folks do. If the upper strut mount is not cracked, re-use it.

Where are you pricing the OEM parts? Is it one of the online discount dealers like www.mylparts.com or www.lexuspartsnow.com

ThumperPup

if you go to mylparts.com when you go to check out use a special promo code CL5 that gives a preatty decent price discount.

you could also go to Rockauto.com and get your front KYB Struts for like less than 200 shipped i think and then get OEM bearings and mounts

Wes45

I found decent Lexus OEM pricing at https://www.oemvehicleparts.com
Does anyone have experience with them?
Thanks,

Clutchless

No but they look like another big OEM dealer offering discounts. Should be fine.
Did you compare their prices to those in the links provided above then include the member discount?

Wes45

I bought KYB's and for the rest of the strut assembly bought OEM parts. Total cost was $240/strut shipped to my door except coil springs. Probably overkill but at least I don't have to worry about anything that might be cracked or worn out when I take things apart.

Lexb

I couldn't find Monroe quick struts for my 2011. Where did you find them ThumperPup ?