Suspension problem in 2001 1.7EL

[trex84]

Hi Everyone, i'm new here.

I just read on another thread that the 2001 1.7EL's have suspension problems.

I bought one last year... i dont see any problem with mine - but i would really appreciate some more info about what to look for in the future. By the way, i have 64,000 km on it so far ( i bought it last summer with 35,000km).

....Also -do aftermarket struts really improve handling alot? If so, whats the best economical brand?

thanks!!

[Tech72]

Hey T84,

I have an '01 1.7EL and the front struts did crap out just like everyone said. It happened at around the 60k mark. The front end got progressively more bouncing over every bump and road imperfection - to the point where it felt dangerous at highway speeds.

Thanks to the advice of some of the board members, I got a set of KYB GR-2 front struts for the 1.7EL for $135cdn each (LY Auto Parts in Mississauga, ON). Then I got both front struts installed for $230cdn and a 4-wheel alignment for $80cdn. The car rides great now. What a difference the new struts made, much less bouncy and more stable on all road surfaces. You can go with higher performance struts but if you just want a good, economical struts that feels similar to OEM (but slightly stiffer, which is good), then I would recommend the GR-2. As a bonus, the GR-2 have a lifetime warranty as long as you own your car.

BTW, after I got my 1.7EL front struts replaced at my own cost, I was talking to a Honda saleman who happens to be a family friend. The guy mentioned that I should have talked to Acura Canada first since they had a recall notice for the 1.7EL front struts. Apparently, most Acura dealerships may still replace the '01 1.7EL front struts for free as a good will gesture. Contact Acura Canada before you decide on dishing out your own cash.......

Cheers,
T.

[trex84]

wow, thanks for your very valuable advice Tech72! muchas gracias