Piston Slap: It Takes Two, Baby

Shawn asks:

I have a 2006 Mazda5 GT which has blown it’s second rear shock in less than 87,000 km. My question is whether I should just replace it with yet another Mazda part, or whether I should go aftermarket and replace both rear ones at the same time. My concern with this option is whether or not the ride quality will be maintained. I do not want to end up with a harsh ride with an aftermarket part. Does anyone have any suggestions? What is a good brand for shocks? Does anyone have any experience with the Mazda5 or have a suggestion for shocks? I am also tempted to just rid of the car altogether :( This would be the fifth repair related to the suspension in three years of ownership.

Sajeev replies:

Everyone justifies the need for a different vehicle, but don’t do it because of this problem. Repeat after me: shocks and struts are normal wear items…even at this age and mileage.

And replacing them one-by-one is a terrible, terrible idea. If one fails, odds are it’s buddy on the other side of the axle is just as worn out. (Unless you drive on roads with potholes on only one side of your lane, of course.) More than likely, you are experiencing something normal in an aging car.

I’d recommend getting a new pair (two, please!) of rear shocks from the same manufacturer this time ‘round. There are plenty of good shock brands, and most offer a comfort shock for your needs. Not that I’d recommend an expensive pair of KONIs, but the Bilsteins mentioned in a previous Piston Slap are right up your alley. The Monroe Sensa-Tracs are probably softer and easier on the wallet, and might make you just has happy for years to come. If you like the feel of the Mazda shocks when they were new and don’t mind the extra cost, go for them. There’s no wrong answer.

Provided you change your shocks in pairs, that is. So just do it.

(Send your queries to mehta@ttac.com)