Vehicle Fitment Information

Toyota    Matrix    2003 - 2008    All Models
Pontiac    Vibe    2003 - 2008    All Models

Package Includes

1x Front Quick Install Ready Strut Assembly (Driver) - 172117

1x Front Quick Install Ready Strut Assembly (Passenger) - 172116

2x Front Stabilizer / Sway Bar End Link - K90433

Item Specifics

Complete Strut Assemblies

• Direct Fit - Ready to Install - No Special Tools Required!
• Each Complete Strut Assembly is designed and tuned for vehicle specific applications
• Complete Strut Assembly includes strut, coil spring (when applicable), strut mount, boot, bumper kit, spring seat, and isolator
• Tough, gloss black, powder coated with neoprene dust boot
• Each Strut is nitrogen gas charged
• Quick and easy - remove and replace the complete Strut Assembly in one piece. Do the complete job with the right auto part the first time. Enhances overall handling, safety, and performance of your vehicle.

Suspension Kit

• Precision-machined, advanced technology, low-friction polymer upper bearing provides smoother, easier steering, improved return-to-center, and eliminates endplay
• Powdered metal lower bearings for improved assembly strength
• Anti-corrosive coating provides protection from the harshest driving conditions
• Heat-treated, precision finished, ball ends for consistent torque and smooth operation throughout the entire range of driving
• Case-hardened, full-ball type stud offers tighter overall fit and improved stability
• Manufactured to meet or exceed expectations on performance and fit​

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* Recommended replacement cycle

Since the average annual distance of the car is 20,000 kilometers, and the shock absorber needs to be replaced in pairs, the replacement frequency is obtained every 4 years. In fact, the replacement frequency will vary depending on the car condition, road condition and shock absorber manufacturer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

(1).Do I need to replace the control arm if the bushings are worn?
  Because the weight of the car is transferred through the control arm two rubber bushings are fitted at the pivot point and bolted to the frame. Road conditions and driving habits can contribute to the wear of these bushings which will become worn and fall apart. These bushing can be inspected by raising the car up and looking for an irregular configuration of the rubber center of the bushing. Many control arms have the ball joint manufactured into the arm which will be replaced along with the control arm itself. When one control arm is worn it is highly advised to replace the opposing arm.

(2).What happens if a ball joint breaks?
  When a ball joint breaks, you will hear a mysterious noise inside your car wheel.
  Your car tire will wear-out since your alignment will be broken, and you will feel the car getting out of control.
  If the ball joint breaks completely, it can be separated, and things can turn sour quickly. The wheel will stop being nice and can even steer you off the road. It can be serious.
  Broken ball joints will seriously affect the steering and suspension. It can even result in your wheel falling off the car.

(3).What happens if I don't replace ball joints?
  If you don't want to replace your ball joints, then get ready to experience some serious issues. The old ball joints cause mysterious clunking noise or drifting steering. Once they are worn-out, it will seriously affect your steering and suspension. However, you do not need to change the ball joints if it is new.

(4).Do I need to grease new ball joints?
  I would say it will be a wise decision if you grease your new ball joints. At least I will always grease a new one after the installation. Greasing a new ball joint will make it stronger and extend its lifetime because there is a minimal amount of grease inside. I suggest you do so after the first installation. Follow the instruction card.

(5).Can I Drive With a Broken Strut?

A strut is a suspension component that dampens an automobile's movements and prevents it from bouncing on its springs. Struts are often expensive to replace, but driving on a broken strut is not a good idea.

(6).Can worn shocks or struts cause my new tires to wear unevenly?

Absolutely: shocks and struts provide damping force to control tire movement. When the tires move excessively, they develop a “cupping” wear pattern that damages the tire.
Other factors such as incorrect air pressure, worn suspension components or improperly aligned steering also causes uneven tire wear.

(7).What are the benefits after replacing the shock absorber?

Buffer conveys shock to drivers and passengers in order to improve ride comfort and reduce fatigue.
Extend body life, prevent spring damage and improve braking effect.
Suppressing the rapid vibration of the wheels while driving, preventing the tires from leaving the road surface and improving the driving stability.
Improving driving stability and adjustability, effectively conveying engine deflagration pressure to the ground, so as to save fuel costs.