Technical shock absorber choice

[Shuggie]

I had all the shock absorbers changed on my Panda MJ about 20k miles back, with 104k on the clock. I have no idea of the make of shocks fitted, but at least one of the rear ones now seems to be pretty ineffective.

So, before I shell out for a set of Bilsteins, can anyone shed any light on aftermarket shocks and price/value/quality issues? Are Bilsteins as good as their reputation suggests? They don't seem to be too pricey - see http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Bilstein-...arts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item43c0fea20f

 

[daveofkent]

I have been thinking the same, I want to replace the shocks and the £20-30 each ebay ones seem tempting, but from other cars i have had they go the same as whats happened to you.

I haven't done it on the panda, but for quality normal stuff you wont go far wrong with Monroe - they'll be good for the life of your car.

 

[daveofkent]

I should add Monroe gasmatic

 

[Shuggie]

Thanks for that tip, but looking at eBay, the Monroes are significantly more expensive than Bilstein http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1x-Fiat-P...Car+Make:Fiat|Model:Panda&hash=item43b88b466d

 

[Bundutoe]

HI, do you have a part number for the Front and rear Monroe Shocks?

 

[AB100]

HI, do you have a part number for the Front and rear Monroe Shocks?

Sachs front struts are £61 a corner in the UK:


http://www.eurocarparts.com/ecp/c/F...6ee752a07152ef15c15cbb62390d9421600ca4&000925

 

[stu0710]

I just bought some rear Bilstein B4's for my 1.2 from Demon Tweeks or £35.00 each.....

 

[stu0710]

I just bought some rear Bilstein B4's for my 1.2 from Demon Tweeks or £35.00 each.....

Linky......

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/perfo.../2007/1-2/bilstein-b4-gas-shock-absorber-rear

 

[HighTide]

I am interested to know what people think too; because I have just had a front shock complete failure at 16,000 miles.

For another car make (Citroen) I have discovered on a ten year test; that the genuine Citroen suspension parts are still in good shape. But the alternatives have not lasted. So for Citroen I only buy genuine.

I would apply the same philosophy to Fiat. However they have made parts that have failed early.

So I am not sure what to think now!

So glad to hear of peoples opinions on what shocks to go for....

 

[fpan]

Koni STR (red) or Sport (yellows) seem to be a popular choice.

Alternatively Sachs.

Having tried Konis in other cars they seem to be well made.