When having my tires changed, my mechanic pointed out that my rear shock absorbers should be replaced.
I own a 2001 325i Sedan.
Other than BMW/right-from-the-dealer parts.... Any suggestions on replacement shocks for this vehicle?
Another mechanic friend is suggesting the KYB brand.
Help!
If you are in the UK look up Europarts.
Why would you replace them with Asian shocks? The originals are Sachs/Boge brand and are available outside the dealership at reduced prices. Most people who want to upgrade their shocks will buy Bilstein or Koni. I have no experience with Konis, but have nothing but good luck with the Bilsteins (german manuf.) If you are only replacing the rears you'll want to use their "touring" series which are about the same dampening as the stock ones. The Heavy duty series has considerably more dampening, but they should be installed all around, not just on one axle. The Sport series are made shorter for use with stiffer lower height springs, so you'd have to replace them all around and also replace the springs at the same time.
-Fred W
If the tire store sells shocks, I'd suggest a second opinion before you do anything.
You could need shocks by now, but the odds are better that you do not, and the tire store is motivated to sell you extra stuff if they do that kind of service.
EXAMPLE I bought a used minivan going on 10 years ago. It was a lease return that I picked up from the dealership. I went to the Oil Change place that does a wide range of vehicle services, and the service writer came back with a list that effectively said that everything behind the hood ornament needed to be replaced. His list of service items was in excess of $5000, and all I wanted was an oil change and the tires rotated. I suspect a similar thing is happening to you.
Get a second opinion. I can't imagine that you need shocks already ...
If you really do need shocks, follow Fred's suggestion, check out Bilsteins, and get one for each corner.
i'd get a second reliable opinion, unless your car is extremely high mileage or you have fallen into every pothole on the road, a 2001 should not need new shocks.
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