bearsteve

I have a stock 99 sc400 with 82k miles on it. When I took it in for its 75k check up at 79k, the Lexus rep at Lexus of Rockville Centre told me I needed new struts, and that that is the reason I hear a squeak come from the back end of the car when I get in or out or take something mildly heavy ot of the trunk. The problem is, I have no idea what this means. I am not looking to do anything fancy as I only anticipate having the car another year or so, but want to make sure I don't let an opportunty pass me by. Can someone explain in simplistic terms what it is that Lexus is suggesting I do?

Thanks

koolaidman

replacing the part that dampens the shock load on the road. otherwise its going to be a bumpy ride

RaynArt

you need new shocks basically. i had kyb gr2's and they worked well as a replacement for the oem ones. now using kyb agx adjustables but that will cost a bit more brand new. good luck.

Chambers

struts as in like tower bars?

indelible

i believe squeaks are from worn bushings, not the struts

jacques

Yes, squeaking in the rear is more commonly from worn out rear bushings than bad shocks. Have him take a look at these before he does any work.

setwire

It is unlikely the squeak is from your struts (shocks).
Do a bounce test on the rear of your car to test what condition your struts are in.
I would lay you odds it is not your shocks, unless you carry a lot of heavy stuff in your trunk all the time, your shocks should last a lot longer than 80k miles.
I would inspect all rear suspension components for loose nut or bolt and spray a little silicone lube into the upper insulators of your shocks and see if it solves your problem.

Rob

bearsteve

thanks for the help guys

car passes the bounce test, but it does squeek when i bounce it. I will have him look at the rear bushing and check the suspension nuts and such. the only time I have anything heavy in my trnk is winter, when i carry 3 cinder blocks, which really isn't that heavy.