Looking to get some struts on all 4 corners. Would like to know what brand/model of strut rides the most like OEM but without the OEM price. The only 2 brands mentioned that I could find from searching the forums are KYB and Monroe OE Spectrum. From what I've read, the KYB's are split between being stiff and harsh, to better handling and performance. Some people where happy with them while others were not. Monroe posters seem to be happy with their choice. Autozone sells Gabriel struts and SenSen brand. SenSens were around $50. Any advice is very much appreciated.

My 2004 RX330 AWD makes noises in the rear going over bumps, and does feel wallowy. She has 198K miles.

 

I wouldnt but anything other than KYB or Monroe. I installed Monroe's on wifes car last year - I think you'll find they are a softer ride tan KYB, not that much different than stock.

 

KYB/GR-2's great strut. They start out a bit slightly firmer than stock then settle in just perfect.

 

Hi Alchemist, did you use Monroe strut mounts or a different brand when you installed the Monroe struts on your wife's RX330? There's a rebate on Monroe struts, to get a prepaid VISA card for the value of 1 strut if you purchase 4, so I am going to go this route. Also do you know how much shop time they would charge to install all 4 as I would have to pay someone to do it. Thanks

 

I used the monroe mounts.

You may pay 200/corner depending where you go.

 

You might want read my previous posts regarding the Strut replacement.

I went OEM struts and Monroe mounts, found a good deal on Ebay. If I had not found that deal on Ebay's site I was ready to go Monroe. My experience with KYB is that they are a bit stiff, at least for me, and did not want to change the smoothness of the Lexus suspension.

If you decide to browse Ebay do a search by part number.

We have KYB's on my wife's Corolla and daughter's Nissan Pathfinder, quality is out of the question.

 

I couldn't find your old post. Do you have a link? Whats considered a good deal? The cheapest OEM struts on ebay are going for about $400 shipped for a front pair.

 

LSBen,

Here is a link to one my previous posts: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-2-or-4-a.html

I did get a pair of OEM rear struts for about $230, shipped. I was not in a hurry so I took my time searching Ebay.

Like I said, I was about to go buy Monroe when I stumbled on the pair of OEM rear struts.

KYB's are good quality, but for me ( this could be just me) are a bit too stiff. I just do not like the ride going over bumps. I am seeing this in my wife's Corolla and my daughter's Pathfinder. I have heard the ride of Monroe struts are close to OEM.

 

LSBen,

Here is another useful link: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...truts-diy.html

Let me know if you have any questions regarding the install process.