When does a Coilover shock need to be replaced/rebuilt?

Aside from obvious damage, deformities, and oil leakage...how do you know if the shock component of a front coilover needs to be replaced/rebuilt?



I’ve added weight and am contemplating getting a stiffer spring but the Bilstein shock already has 100,000 miles. Wondering if I should just replace the whole coilover assembly.

Current setup is Eibach 521600 around a Bilstein 5100. Springs are 2.5” taller but only 600lb springs.

Not looking for product recommendations, just info about shock lifespan.

Thanks

 

Coil overs wear out just like regular shocks & struts. With 100,000 miles on yours, I'd say they're pretty well used up and should be replaced. That said, people define "worn out" many different ways and I generally prefer to replace my suspension components sooner than later. Some folks like to wait until everything's just flopping around. Your call there.

The funny thing about shocks is that they generally wear out gradually over time. (Catastrophic failures are rare.) Because of this, most folks don't know how worn out they are until they put new shocks in and see / feel the difference. Ever hear somebody say they've got 100,000 miles on their shocks and they feel just fine? Wait till they replace them.

 

Thanks for the response. Makes perfect sense. Now just gotta figure out how to hide another large truck purchase from my wife.

 

5100 can't be rebuilt, so your only option is to replace it. With 100k on it, it wouldn't be a bad idea to get new ones.

 

Show her the cost of new tires from driving with bad struts.

 

Truth
She may then be persuaded. Although, then again, she may also just not care because it’s a vehicle

 

Ever see a car drive over a speed bump and keep bouncing for a hundred yards past it? That car needs new shocks.