Hwycruiser
Well-known member
I have seen a lot of posts asking for opinions before struts/shocks etc are replaced but most times never hear an update. So I thought I would share my story. Last year around Nov/Dec (about 12k miles ago) at considerable expense I did a complete refresh of my 02 Golf suspension. Replaced struts/shocks with Bilstein Touring (reg), all rubber bushings with stock, tie rods, ball joints, control arms, steering knuckles plus replaced front and rear wheel bearings. Also got a new set of BF Goodrich T/A tires. So I basically now have a new car suspension. Being an older guy now, I just wanted a comfortable daily driver. I like the car so thought it was worth the investment. My thoughts about it now is the car handles well and the old squeaks, groans, thunks of an old suspension are now gone, which is good. But I am not happy with the ride quality, it does okay on smooth pavement (don’t all) and is controlled with big bumps. The ride on rough asphalt, poor country roads and rough Interstate concrete beats me up. I’m not expecting an old Buick ride, a firm European ride is okay, but I don’t want to feel every road imperfection. Our 17 Passat is sooo much more comfortable on rough pavement. Maybe the Golf is just too lightweight with a short wheelbase for a comfortable ride? I had read that the Bilsteins could be harsh but they were low cost. My question is did I make a mistake getting the Bilstein Touring or would the Kona Special Actives I was considering been a better choice for a smoother ride? Is a smooth ride over rough roads even possible with an MK4 Golf?
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