Expert: Sean Halliday - 2/10/2009

Question
I have a concern about my cars struts or springs, hopefully you can help me. I have been hearing rattling and squeaking anytime i go in pot holes or go over speed bumps, is that a sign that my fronts struts are bad? Also, The Toyota Camry i have is a 98 and i have observed that when i have four occupants in the car including myself that the back seems to sink or ride lower than normal. Usually I have noticed in other vehicles that the vehicles rear is slightly higher and has a load leveling suspension which levels out with the front, so should the springs or the struts in the rear be replaced? SHould I invest in spot struts something more rugid because I always seem to bottom or hit the cars front when there are 3 or more occupants in the vehicle?

Answer
This would depend on how much mileage is on your car.If you have more than 100k,then i would suggest new shocks all round as most Toyotas seem to go around this point.Extra weight will make the car lower to the ground no matter what shocks you use.The standard fittings work ok and there is no need to upgrade to heavy duty.I would recommend Bilstein or Gabriel shocks.A good way to tell if you need shocks is look at the tyres and see if they are scrubbed at the side walls.If the rear need replaced, you will notice the road holding is not good at high corner speed the rear will "step out".Front end shake and vibration is also common.