Shazzaxx

So my car has leaky rear struts, Not bad leaks, but leaking a little. I don't do my own work but have a good, honest, cheap mechanic who was a Toyota master mechanic at a dealership for his entire career but now has his own shop in retirement. He said there is no harm in waiting to replace the struts because they are still functioning and the car rides great (literally like butter). The struts pass the bounce test. The rear tires do wear unevenly, but free lifetime balance and rotation keeps this from being a real problem. The car is slightly out of alignment, but nothing noticeable. My mechanic doesn't have an alignment bay. Other mechanics won't perform an alignment because the front tie rod bolt is too siezed to loosen, and a rear strut (worn or bent) keeps the wheel from adjusting to just within spec. I'm sure I could have him replace the rears for less than average cost. If I do that I might as well do the front's too. Then I should probably fix the front tie rod problem just so it can be aligned. When I tell my mechanic this he just says we'll watch it and wait till there is an actual problem. I've not done the timing belt and am not planning on it, but if I start repairing this car's entire suspension, I should probably think about that. Doing nothing is always easier. I am not sure what is the right strut to buy, or if I need to do the mounts as well. I fear I'll loose my buttery ride if I pick the wrong equipment. My mechanic says when the car starts riding poorly I'll know its time. They may function with leaks for another 5 years. Does anybody use the hands off approach like me, or am I as stupid as this post makes me sound?

ls430w140

In one of topics I posted the image from Lexus guidelines which approves the fact that sometimes if struts leak a really small amount of oil, it is OK until the ride deteriorates. So, likely, nothing to worry about.

Shazzaxx

Thanks, I didn't find the picture, but I did find the post where the general consensus is once you start replacing suspension components that it gets expensive if you try to replace all the ancillary rubber parts (mounts, bushings). I would actually do it if I knew exactly what to buy. Struts, mounts, bushings, sub-mounts? There are so many things mentioned. Is it ok to just replace the rear suspension and leave the front alone? I know I have a seized tie rod bolt in front. They told me I'd need a new tie rod....so do I just buy one? Really just driving it until it starts clunking over bumps doesn't seem like a bad way to go.

Bocatrip

No reason at all to replace the front struts at the same time. It is very possible the fronts can last for years or longer without issues. . Just replace what is showing great wear or has failed. Your rears won't be getting better, but you can get some additional time before it becomes noticeable.