My '05 AWD Pacifica has 100,700 miles on it. It's primarily my tow vehicle. I've been towing my Miata Track Car on a dolly for about 9 years. I am going to have the timing belt replaced next week. I was thinking about the suspension. The suspension actually feels no softer then it did 95,000 mile ago. But, I'm wondering when is it time to replace it? Can you use the mileage as a parameter and the fact that I'm towing. Aside from towing, the Pacifica is crammed with stuff. Another 6 tires mounted on wheels, floor jack, misc tools and clothes and stuff. It's carrying a bunch. And if it is time are there any suggestions out there to maybe stiffen the suspension. On the other hand the OEM suspension has been doing it's job quite well for over a 100k miles. Since it was going to be in the shop for the timing belt I felt maybe it's a good time to possibly improve on the suspension-if that is possible.

 

It's probably time for shocks/struts. "Softness" is a function of the spring stiffness, that's not likely to change much. It'd be a good time to look at the ball joints, too.

 

Dc otter:
Thanks for reminding me about ball joints.
Although I got 100k on OE suspension I'm considering after market parts.
Anyone replace with other then OE?
How'd you like other then OE suspension.

 

Any suggestions on replacement shocks? Stick with OE or are there other better alternatives?
OE did give me a 102k problem free miles.

 

I used the Monroe Quick Struts (strut and spring combo) on the front of my '04 Pacifica at 117,000 miles, and was really impressed with the results.

I didn't bother with the rear shocks, because those are the air ride shocks, and a priced at $289 each!

 

I have an 08 Pacifica which rides very hard and slams over any bump in the road. I have had the shocks and struts looked at by 2 different shops and both said that there isn't any sign of leakage, but I am convinced that the shocks and struts are worn. I have 72K miles on the vehicle and it still has the originals.I was thinking of replacing the front struts with the Monroe Quick Strut and the rears with the Monroe Special Shock. How difficult are the rear shocks to replace?