About Ron Cris Expertise I welcome all questions about basic automotive repair..Brakes..Front End and Engine rebuilding..I am especially trained in rebuilding Chevrolet v8 Engines.
Experience I have 25 yrs experience a a journeyman mechanic
Automotive - Front Strut Replacement '02 Mazda MPV LX
Expert: Ron Cris - 2/19/2008
Question Hi Ron-
My wife complained that our '02 Mazda MPV was feeling every bump and making noise over bumps- took it to our local mechanic who we trust- the quote is $900 to replace front struts including new mounts and links and an alignment. I called the dealer, they want $706.00 dollars- but indicate nothing about new mounts/links- I also asked the service advisor about whether an alignment is necessary. He says none is required--
My question- who is right here? Is an alignment required? And is the better service the one that includes new mounts and links which I dont think the dealer is including?
Thanks for your time.
Answer often times the link pin bushings will cause noise..
maybe you only need those..they are not expencive..
you can check the struts by bouncing the car..
if it only bounces 1-2 times then stops..they are ok..if they continue to bounce free on the spring only..they are worn out..
If you change out the struts..
Alignment check is reccomended..
I would call some more shops..
And price the struts seperatly at you auto parts store..
See if anyone will install the stuts if you buy them yourself.
You might save some $$..
GOOD LUCK !!
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