When should the shocks/springs be replaced?

[unvmyrs]

I just hit 90.000 in my 2000 ss and noticed the suspension 'creaks' mostly in the front passenger side. Was looking to upgrade anyway and couldn't find anything about a real mileage point where they should be replaced.

[landj]

Re: When should the shocks/springs be replaced?

It's not a milage point kind of thing. It really depends on too many variables, road conditions, loading, style of driving, speed. The shocks don't wear based on just "miles." That being said, the deCarbons (which you may or may not have) *usually* wear out under average conditions with average drivers at around 20,000 to 30,000 miles.

Best case, creaking could just be the rubber joints rubbing (not necessarily a sign of wear), a little grease applied to the right spot should stop that. BUT, you should inspect the ball joints and suspension parts for wear (jack it up see if you can wiggle anything by grabbing the tire and trying to move it in ways it shouldn't move).

I doubt you should ever have to replace the springs unless you want to feel more bumps or want a stiffer ride.

Shocks should be replaced when they are worn (oooh that was helpful). Safety and performance wise, they keep your wheels in contact with the ground. If you notice that the car is kicking out on curves when encountering cracks or bumps, then thats a good indication that the shocks are bad. I don't know what's on the 2000 models, but in 95 they were "deCarbon" shocks, which lasted for about an 20,000 miles. If that's whats under your car, it's a safe bet that they are shot.

Changing the shocks will improve safety and your derriere will thank you.

[cam98aro]

Re: When should the shocks/springs be replaced?

the stock decarbon shocks are usually worn out by 50k miles... mine lasted until around 120k before they were too bad

[ssms5411]

Re: When should the shocks/springs be replaced?

I think my first set lasted 75,000 miles with eibach lowering springs for about all of those miles, then about 120,000 miles they went out again , so then I had Blisteins installed, then about 155,000 I went with KYB adj. on the front and kept the Blisteins on the rear. At 165,000 i went with QA-1's all around. I've hit 170,000 miles now I think and the car handles great. Also at 155,000 I swaped out all the bushings up front and went with a tubular front end, K member, and A arms. Also if its creaking the sway bar bushings might need greasing, I have noticed when they dry out the car will creak when getting into and out of. Also going over speed bumps.