Recent loss in stability

[Boomersooner]

I am trying to determine what might be wrong with my car.

When driving on the highway around a curve with an uneven surface the car seems to jolt to one side when going over the uneven surface. It seems like this is most noticeable in the rear of the car. This happens a few times a week.

Today there was a lot of water on the roads and when going straight I noticed a similar experience where the vehicle would lose traction (probably due to minor hydroplaning) and the rear would start sliding out. Typically in the past I would notice if there was a lot more water it would make a louder noise (I believe the vehicle hydroplaning), but it would always stay straight on course. It was very worrisome that my vehicle was losing control so easily.

I presume it probably has something to do with the suspension/steering?

Has anyone had a similar experience or suggestion for what items need to be replaced?

Vehicle is a 2007 with 150k miles. All items are original except for the following replaced 2 years ago: Sway bar endlinks, 1 hub bearing, both outer tie rods. Tires are in good condition with plenty tread.

 

[cheatah faheatah]

It's time for rear (and front too) struts. You're losing traction because the tires aren't being held down to the road. They're actually kind of bouncing along.

 

[Boomersooner]

Thanks! I am thinking of getting some Monroe quick struts. I am going to try to drive carefully and wait for the spring sales they usually have.

 

[cheatah faheatah]

Quick Struts are easier, but also more expensive...either way you'll need an alignment afterwards. Not immediately, but soon. Say within 1,000miles or so. I get most of my parts from Advance Auto, I joined rewards program and have app on my phone. Real good discounts and rewards. Others here use Rock Auto.com or 1AAuto.com. Good luck.....E.

 

[Boomersooner]

Yeah, I was thinking quick struts. All new parts and easier to install. Looks like the options are somewhat limited. Looks like Amazon and RockAuto have competitive prices on some of the higher rated Monroe products. Anyone else have any recommendations for quick struts? I saw "Detroit Axle" on ebay.... but based on some reviews there are some quality issues. The last thing I want to do is have a ride that is bad for a long time, or have to change the struts a few months later for being defective.

 

[daviddawg]

Changed all 4 on my 2008 grand prix last year got great price from parts geek on line for Monroe quick struts. The job went pretty good would be a lot easier with an extra set of hands.

 

[Boomersooner]

Looks like there aren't as many options with the quick-struts. If I go the other way and just by struts, do I always need a new mounting kit for each one, or do I just need a new mounting kit if the existing one is damaged?

 

[cheatah faheatah]

I got new ones for the fronts, because they pivot and have a bearing inside. I figured while I'm in there, swap them and not have to worry about some kind of noise/failure soon afterward. As for the rears, it's more of a stationary mount, so when they didn't fall apart upon removal, I just reused them. FYI if you DON'T go with Quikstruts, you'll need a spring compressor tool. Most parts stores "loan" for free (leave deposit for value of tool, which is refunded upon return). BE CAREFUL if you've never used one....mistakes can be dangerous. Remember you're harnessing something powerful enough to support 1/4 of your car. Heed all warnings, and follow all instructions !! I'm not trying to scare you, this is a D.I.Y. job all the way......Good Luck......E.

 

[daviddawg]

Quick struts are so much easier to change you may pay more for them but you don`t have to worry about new mounts bushings boots ect.Like Cheatah said spring compression can be dangerous.I have done struts both ways I will go with quick struts from now on.