One of my shocks went bad...
 

In the rear. So can I just replace that with any fitting shock sold for my model and year or do I HAVE TO replace bothe rear shocks at the same time? Anyone have an idea as to how long it would take a shop to replace a shock? Thanks...

I would replace them both. You should be able to do it your self in a few hours. Save the shop fee and buy a second shock.

Oh really? Someone said ypu had to have some pretty specific expensive tools.... I'll check the manual....

Is my car on a level control system???

You really should buy the shocks in pairs. In theory it keeps the dampening effect "even" from side to side, and should provide the smoothest most consistent ride.
You can easily do this, and somebody has posted a good detailed replacement thread. Might be in the Wiki section......
I'll look for it and add a link here if I find it.

You should never replace a single shock with a different type. They should match.

If your car is fairly new, you can replace them individually if you use the exact same replacement parts. If your car is older, you will not be able to get a shock that matches the worn other side.

Front to back is important too, but tends to be ignored. New shocks on the front will give you a tight car, and new shocks on the rear will give you a loose car. You don't want either.

Thanks. Gabriel gas shocks are 50 dollars a pair. Bad idea? I wouldn't like to dpend more than 50 on each shock tops. Any suggestions on a cheap good shock?

You can't do better than Bilstein! Period!!!!!!

found this:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showpost.php?p=1724115&postcount=78

**btw, I hate those KYB's! :mad: {Keep Your Bilsteins} ;)

I have KYBs on the front and mystery shocks on the back and my car handles like a hippopotamus.

I would replace them both at the same time! If one went bad, the other will soon follow since they were installed together.;)

Your signature indicates a sedan.
I think you'll thank yourself if you use Bilsteins. No special tools required. On the rears you'll need to remove the rear seat back. A helper makes things much easier.
Please replace in pairs.
I'll also suggest against order ANYTHING from Adsitco.

Did you have a bad experience or something?

I think we're gonna require a little more information than that! ;)
Please relate your personal experience that has caused this opinion. I have had no experience with them, but know lots of folks have....

Removing rear shocks...
 

So I was told their was a danger of the spring popping out or something and causing injury. Which bolts should be removed first? The bottom or the top? And what sort of events do I need to take precaution against? I don't want to get hurt.....thanks

Well, in post #8, there is a link, with pictures of the process.



Come on, your standing at the bank of the river. Take a drink.......;)