1999 Jetta Wolfsburg: Bad Rear Struts & Mounts- Keep on Driving???

Question

My Jetta has 70K on it. Yesterday, I noticed 'clunking' noises from the right rear suspension. I took it to a shop this morning and they diagnosed it as bad rear struts and mounts. The repair cost was very high ($600) and I decided to postpone the fix.

1) Is it safe to keep on driving it for normal commutes?

2) If I want to sell the vehicle, should I fix it?

3) Is it normal for struts to go bad at 70K for this vehicle?

4) If I fix it, should I do the fronts as well?

Thanks in advance.

Dave · Accepted Answer

1. Yes.2. Up to you but if you don't it will take away from sale price.3.  Very possible.4. Not necessarily.The rears are a easy job, especially if you buy the shocks, springsall together.  Somewhat more of a pain if you just buy the struts.Same goes for the front.

Bob Hetzel · Answer

VW rear "struts" are really just shocks with the spring slightly pressurized.It's an easy DIY--under 5 bolts total.  Get the shocks for under $50 per sideand the bump stops if you need them for under $50 for both sides.  No need for a spring compressor.  When you take them out you'll see that youcan easily compress the spring with one hand, but you might need a helperto undo the nut at the top while you hold it.  They're not under anywhere nearthe compression of a front strut so you won't be in any danger at all.

1999 Jetta Wolfsburg: Bad Rear Struts & Mounts- Keep on Driving???

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