db123
Veteran Member
I have to replace the front struts and when sourcing new ones there is a listing for 'Sport' or 'Standard' suspension. How do you know which one you have?
Thanks.
Thanks.
The build tag in the trunk has the suspension code listed, although you can interchange the struts themselves. Most North American VAG products have the lower level sport suspension, but not always on the B5.
What are you looking for? OEM level? Something a little stiffer? A lot stiffer?
The build tag will have either 1BA (non-sport) or 1BE (sport) on it somewhere, look on the bottom line (there will be a bunch of 3-digit codes listed).
Koni STR.T Orange seem perfect on mine- just the right firmess and compliance. IMO
I have Bilstein on all my cars, and even my F150. They are an excellent fit, and last a really long time. Probably a bit stiffer than some folks like, but I sure install a lot of them and never any complaints.
Both the Passats have the yellow HDs.
Both the Golfs have the black Sports.
Truck has some big beefy yellow ones, "extra duty" whatever that means.
Sprinter has whatever version they use from the factory.
Vanagon as some OE-type black replacements.
Yes, lots of them. No complaints. I personally think the B5 Passat's OEM choice was a bit soft, too Buick like for my tastes, even when new.
Most of the VAG products here I put the black Billies on, A4, A5, B5, etc. Never any complaints, any feedback has always been positive. Several who have more than one car actually brought their other one in shortly afterwards for the same treatment.
I had put a set of STR T's on my '00 Golf and though I liked the ride, I found the paint on the outside of the shock didn't last too long. I remember they easily scratched when I was installing them and the paint work not holding up so well. I should note where I live salt is used on the roads in the winter months.....