Front coil spring/strut assembly

Tiny
DON FERREIRA
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 AUDI A6
  • 3.0L
  • V6
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 171,000 MILES
Hello, I am a retired auto collision repair tech but now money has become a huge problem. I need to know if I can safely replace one side of my coil/strut assembly at a time. I can afford to replace one side this month and the other side with alignment, next month. Can I do this safely? One side at a time?
Thursday, November 3rd, 2016 AT 3:26 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,330 POSTS
The strut is not involved with the alignment on your car. The coil spring is responsible for ride height, and that is related to alignment because it changes the suspension parts geometry, and therefore the motions the wheel goes through as the car goes up and down over bumps.

Be aware that handling and braking are compromised when anything is not equal on both sides of the car, so get the second strut replaced as soon as possible.

The new coil springs will restore ride height to manufacturer's specifications, so you may find the front end is in better alignment than it was before. Regardless, the alignment should be checked.
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Thursday, November 3rd, 2016 AT 3:44 PM
Tiny
DON FERREIRA
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Thank you Caradiodoc, I really appreciate your prompt response. Thanks for the reassurance. I will certainly replace the other side ASAP. :)
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Thursday, November 3rd, 2016 AT 3:54 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Please use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help and tell a friend.

Best, Ken
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Monday, November 7th, 2016 AT 9:11 AM

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