Julia

Wondering if we really need new struts all around. Dealer has recommended new front and rear struts and "strut tops" to correct various noises, although some of those noises turned out to be from loose lug nuts on one wheel. The car is surely showing its age (2000, with 165,000 miles) as far as ride quality and handling, but $2,400 for struts, tops and alignment?? :o

Anybody do aftermarket struts?

I just spent (literally today) a little over $1000 on all four new struts because they were causing the steering wheels to shimmy. The last time I had them replaced was when my 1998 ES300 had about 50K. It was covered by warranty then. I was told that we need to have them replaced every 60K. Mine has 160K miles on it.

I do have a question about Yokohama tires. Any opinion on the YK520?

Thanks.

JS

I am not sure its exact location, but was told it's next to the fuel injection. I was also told it's about a two-hour job. How much did it cost yours done? Or did you do it yourself?

I have a 1998 ES300 with 151K miles. Recently, because of leaks in three different areas, I spent $2,500 to replace all seals, gaskets, camshaft valves, all belts and water pump. The car runs very well (and quiet too), although I feel like the pick up is not as good as it used to be. My mechanic (an independent mechanic) asked me when was the last time I had the fuel filter replaced. He said he always recommend his client to replace the fuel filter every 60K miles. I checked my old record from the dealer, but it did not show any replacement of fuel filter.

Anyone has any advise?

- Julia