Brand: Aging Infiniti could use some new struts - Minneapolis Star Tribune
Q: We have a 1999 Infiniti I30 with 122,000 miles that runs well but has one issue — at highway speeds the car noticeably “jumps” or “skips” sideways slightly when going over big bumps. We have not replaced the struts or any other suspension components. The struts show no signs of leaking but two garages have suggested replacing them, given the car’s mileage. How would you suggest we diagnose it. Would new struts correct this. Is it worth spending $1,000-plus to put new struts on the car, given its age. Unless there are significantly worn or loose suspension components — ball joints, bushings or tie rods — the shocks/struts are likely worn enough to allow the tires to momentarily lose traction, causing the car to skip or jump a bit. As the wheel/tire encounters a bump, the shock/strut is tuned to resist and dampen the upward suspension travel, literally absorbing the impact. At 15-plus years and 122,000 miles, the shocks/struts on this vehicle are certainly worn enough in their damping action to warrant replacement. A quick online search pulled up KYB and Monroe strut assemblies for this vehicle priced in the $60-$100 range, not including installation, so you might be able to have all four replaced for significantly less than $1,000. Q: I am on my third... Source: www.startribune.com
