Quick struts vs. re-use original springs

WesternRoadtripper1
Mon, 18 Jul 2022 06:36:16 +0000
Maintenance/Repairs

I’ve heard a rationale for re-using the original coil springs when replacing front struts. The claim made was that new springs would be stiffer than the tired old ones, thus slightly raising the front of the car compared to where it had been on the old “weaker” springs.

I know that compressing the springs in order to get them off the old strut is difficult, requiring a special compressor, and probably involves some risk to the inexperienced DIYer. Thus, opting for “quick struts” is often the best option. Clearly, a lot of cars on the road ride on quick struts (with new springs).

Without any prior experience, I would guess (and it’s only a guess) that there may well be a slight difference caused by the difference of old springs vs new. But is there any detectable difference in all aspects of driving – meaning alignment, handling, safety? Or is the difference negligible and insignificant?

Who has an opinion on this?

19 posts - 10 participants