I'm about to have all of the suspension-related bushings replaced both in the front and rear, and wanted to know if I should also replace the shocks and/or struts. I'm more versed with Saab's, and you never have to replace the shocks in those vehicles (only the bushings).

Reason for replacing bushings is due to dry rot, and some being severely torn. I am using oem rubber (not poly; this is the in-law's car and she's not in the need for speed). There is 100K miles on the ticker.

If I do have to replace the shocks/struts, where is the best place to get oem ones at a decent price (again, no need for higher performance ones)? What about a place to get decent prices on all of these oem bushings?

TIA

Joe

 

Struts are kind of give and take on these cars. I had about 130,000 miles on my struts when I replaced them and they were still in good shape. No leaks at all. I've seen other civics with 60,000 miles on them with bad and leaking struts. I would say if they are not leaking, they should be fine, but I can't tell you for how long.
If you are looking for OEM, Monroe makes a good strut. Otherwise OEM Honda struts are about $60 each from www.hondaautomtiveparts.com.

 

You can get the bushings at a good price there also. I switched to poly for ease of future installs. I agree with the shock comment about if not leaking they should be good, mine where replaced at about 240,000 miles because the springs rusted and broke, the shocks were not leaking or rusting yet, just didn't feel like they were doing their job anymore. I got H&R OEM sport and KYB gr-2's for the replacement because of cost.