Taki

Hi guys,
I have a 99 A4 V6, 150,000 km, with a "Normal" suspension, i.e. not "Sport". Lately I have the feeling that the car is a bit unstable in high speed, especially in crosswind. I have e colleague of mine with a 2003 A4 also with a "Normal" suspension. If I press down consecutively the fronts of the both cars, I clearly get the feeling that mine car is much, much softer.

So, the question is, is it just the shock absorbers (probably never changed before, it is not noticed in the service book), or I have to change the springs too?

Thanks in advance!


D.Ianev
Copenhagen, Denmark

tobin

They are DEFINITELY worn out with 150km on them, and new shocks will greatly improve your ride. You do not have to change the springs; they should last the life of the car. However, new shocks will not change your ride height. If you want to lower the car, you'll have to change the springs. If you are on a budget, I'd recommend finding some used "sport" springs to go along with new shocks.

Taki

Thanks man,
yes I forgot to mention: I do NOT want a "sport" suspension, racing or anything like that, just more ..... stable, not so .... swinging!)

freakness

Your shocks probably died 35 to 50,000 kilometers ago so the change will seem like night and day.

snowseeker

Instability on the road could be due to non-stiff tie rod ends also. Lifting the car and trying to manipulate the front wheels by hand you may observe some play. I could tell the difference before and after the repair in my car.

'96 A4 2.8 QM