Sfcyclist

Very happy after driving more on the B6’s. Ride is firm but not harsh. Handling is drastically improved. Based on the condition of my worn shocks it’s not hard to believe. What I can’t determine is how this compares to stock as it been a while.

With so many aftermarket options, no need to go with Oem at all.

rababich

Finally got a chance to check out the Bilstein B6 rear shocks on a stretch of particularly rough road today.
Just like Sfcyclist, nice and firm, but not harsh, very pleased with the ride and it does seem to handle corners better.
The left OEM shock was worn out so the rearend is firmly planted now, it used to wallow a bit on the left.

RX in NC

Thanks to both of you for the additional feedback on your new B6 rear shocks. You have both confirmed that this is indeed the approach I will also take when rear shock replacement time comes.

Clutchless

I just ordered the Bilsteins, they should arrive on January 24. I too will provide a review.

RX in NC

Looking forward to hearing comments from more owners who decide to install these Bilstein B6 rear shocks as the substandard factory rear shocks continue to fail.

Sfcyclist

My ct200h is at Lexus for some work and they gave me a 2019 rx450h as a loaner. I still have a hard time gauging how the 3rd gen suspension felt when it was new.

I plan to drive my 3rd gen over the weekend to compare. The 4th gen overall is quite different but it's a benchmark.

Sfcyclist

After a few more test drives and comparing to 4th Gen RX450, the Bilstein B6 is definitely a great replacement if you are after a firm ride. I will go as far as to say the ride is refreshed(obviously) and handling is improved compared to stock. Though it's been about 9 years, I don't recall this is better than stock.

Hope this helps if anyone is debating about going with the Bilstein B6 rear shocks.

A quick review comparing 3 gen. RX350 to the 4 gen RX450. It's hard to isolate the suspension alone to compare since the 4th gen has substantially changed in terms of weight and chassis rigidity. The firmness is def. cranked up on the 4th gen but now with the B6 shocks, the 3G is very close. Overall though, I actually didn't enjoy the 4th Gen as much as I thought I would. The car is just so heavy now and the hybrid system really disconnected the driving experience. Though the power is up, it wasn't enough to give me a "wow". Either way, it's great to have a loaner and experience the car thoroughly,5 days versus a 20 min. test drive. Now I have the UX for a few days...

RX in NC

Thanks for the additional feedback. No question that I am going with the Bilstein B6 rear shocks on my wife's 2015 RX350 when the time comes. Her vehicle is now approaching 50,000 miles so it should still have quite a ways to go before new rear shocks are needed. That is, as long as Lexus did indeed address and correct the rear shock leaking issue before the 2015 model year as they claim they did. Time will tell.

m5rahul

My 2015, with about 55k on the clock, needs a new rear shock ( driver’s side ) .. Definitely considering the B6s! Probably do both sides..

Clutchless

You should replace both rear shocks at the same time if changing from the OEM shocks to the Bilsteins. The Bilsteins being stiffer, behave so much differently it may be a danger to your handling and driving. You would have a soft shock on one side and a stiff shock on the other side.
You could get seasick or worse.
The B6 shocks are stiffer but still have a decent, but slightly rougher ride. If you want to keep it closer to the original ride, get the B4 shocks.

m5rahul

I was originally thinking about doing just one with the OEM, but since I’m considering the B6s I will change’em both indeed.

RX in NC

How did your 2015 rear drivers-side shock fail at 55,000 miles? Is it leaking fluid?

These OEM shocks sure seem to be terrible with numerous early failures. Shame on Lexus....

toyotaguy2

Bilstein also offers B6 shocks for the front of the Highlander. I'm about to buy them soon.

Clutchless

toyotaguy2 - thanks for finding out that Bilstein finally released B6 front struts for the 2014 and newer Highlander. I found them available for special order. Part No.s

FRONT LEFT
Strut Housing
Manufacturer Part #: 22-282873

FRONT RIGHT
Strut Housing
Manufacturer Part #: 22-282880

toyotaguy2

You can buy them in SummitRacing if you prefer. Cheaper than Bilsteins website.