I installed bilstein 5100's 40,000 miles ago and they still look like new. Do Bilstein shocks ever go bad? If so what is a typical lifespan for these shocks? I never see any posts about replacing Bilstein's only people changing from OEM to Bilsteins.

 

Good question. I've got 82K on mine (HD version, not 5100's). They still perform almost like new but are starting to show signs of spots that are rusting. NH winter road chemicals and living on a dirt road are probably to blame. But they've got MANY more miles in them.

 

A number of high end European cars use Bilsteins as OEM, and they generally last well over 100k miles. It is going to depend on how you use them--if you do a lot of hard off-roading, they will definitely wear out faster. If you just drive them on the street, they should be good for a LONG time.

Look at 'em every so often (maybe when you get tires rotated or brakes checked) to make sure they're not leaking. I remember the days of cheap American shocks dying in 30k miles or less, but they used to cost $10 or less apiece as well. You definitely pay for Bilsteins up front, but get a high end product.

George

 

I was just thinking of replacing the originals on my '04 this upcoming spring. From this thread so far it would look like the Bilsteins may be the way to go. Do they have a specified warranty? I currently have about 125K on the originals and only now showing some signs of exessive bounce. I hope whatever I choose will last as long.

 

Per the Bilstein site, lifetime warranty unless you race or abuse them:

Bilstein

I have not had experience with Bilsteins on a truck; they may ride firmer than the OEM shocks, which may or may not be a problem depending on what you want. I did put some KYB Gas-A-Justs on an old FJ40 Land Crusher a number of years back and they were also pretty firm.

I've got 80k on my original E150 shocks and am thinking I should replace them because the fronts didn't have enough control even when they were new...dunno if I want to spend the $$ for Bilsteins.

 

Thanks YoGeorge,

You are right, they are a bit pricey. Maybe I will do a little more shopping. I have a few months to compare brands and warranties.

 

I got all 4 for $411 shipped. I priced the OEM replacements from local parts store and they were gonna be close to $360 plus tax. They aren't that much, if any more if you buy the set of 4. I have had them on for 2 weeks with the fronts set to 2" lift and love them so far. They are a bit stiffer than the OEM but the truck seems more stable with them, and they are getting softer.