It has slowly lost the its renowned smooth ride especially over not perfect road conditions.
I know almost nothing about a car suspension. But I know it probably might entail shock absorbers, springs?, other? What would be my repair options and what would the probable cost be? What have others done about their rough ride? Or do I just accept the fact that it is no longer a new car?
Thanks Joe
The first thing I would wonder about are the tires: model, age, wear, inflation pressure. Obviously at 95,000 you are not using the original tires. Perhaps the replacement tires simply don't ride as smoothly. Also, as tire age, besides wearing, they seem to ride harder. When were they last balanced? Even if they were properly balanced when new, that can change with time. Are they inflated properly (probably about 32 psi, check your owner's manual or the placard).
It the tires check out OK, the next item would be alignment, and after that, the shocks (struts).
But each of these problems have specific characteristics. You need to have a knowledgeable mechanic check it out. I would suggest a Toyota dealer or a shop that is NOT in the specialized business of selling new tires, shocks or alignments.
Merritt
You need struts, they go hard with age, get a new set.
From Toyota OEM ones installed will be $1-1.2k! Ouch. Aftermarket like Monroe Sensormatic are like $400 for parts plus installation (mabe $200?) and an alignment. All have lifetime product (not installation) guarantee. You will probably also need new rubber mounting/dust boots for another $150. I'd consider new bushing for the sway bars at the same time.
I just replaced the rear struts in my '92 Camry with Toyota parts. Cost about $600 ($200 for each strut, $200 labor). The dealer told me they are guaranteed for life, both parts AND labor.
Merritt
Just like the ORIGINAL OEMs were guaranteed for life (yeah, life of the struts)?
The original ones are NOT guaranteed, except for the standard new car warranty. Same deal applies to the exhaust system. Probably the only way Toyota can get people to buy their high-priced replacements!
Merritt
Toyota will probably tell you the struts aren't worn yet when you go back to get new ones. You'll get the standard line: that's normal.
$200 for each Toyota strut will get you about 3 new ones, and many places offer free installation near the holidays.
That's if you don't sell the car before then. It may sound like a good deal, but it isn't.
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