Expert: Sean Halliday - 3/11/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I have a 1996 Toyota Camry LE (2.2litre, 4 cylinder, automatic, 4 door) and it has over 150000 miles on it.  The car is pretty low to the ground and I know that it needs new front & back struts.  I am wondering if I should change the coil springs as well?.  The car seems to bounce when I push down on the front/back bumper.  But the darn thing hits the bottom when going everything(we have to come to a complete stop and proceed VERY slowly or the car bottom hits).  Thoughts?  Springs for all 4 wheels along with the struts are very expensive for this car.

ANSWER: You dont need to replace the springs as they do not wear.Replace the inner shocks and the car will be ok.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for getting back to me so quick!.. I was wondering because the parts stores have been pushing the strut/with coil spring together...they said after 150,000 miles, it would be wise to change the springs as well. Plus, they say it is easier to just swap out the old strut & spring as 1 piece units, then to get a coil spring compressor & just change out the struts.  Can you tell me if I have to replace the strut mounts, or anything else as well?  Or can I get by with just changing out the struts?  I don't want to have to buy more than I absolutely need to, besides times are tuff!  The guys at the parts counter keeps telling me I need this and that, ect...I'm sure he gets paid based on what he sells so I don't want to buy things I really don't need.

Answer
Must be a pushy parts guy.You do not need springs as they dont wear out.I have never replaced a spring unless they break which is unlikely these days.Strut mounts would be a good idea if the rubber seems hard or cracked,if they look ok then leave them alone.Some white grease as you put them back is good.Spring compressors cost very little and you can buy some on ebay for $10.Or less and these will last you for a life time.