antiqueken

Thanks for all of the replies. My wife drives this one most times, and says she doesn't really feel any change in the handling from when we bout it at 30k miles. The "push the corner down" test has shown "normal" results as well. I think I'll start getting worried about this again at over 120k miles! Thanks again for the inputs. Ken

I own a 98 Legacy Outback with just over 80k miles on it. The struts are original, and was wondering when most folks replace them (there is no mention of replacing them in the owner's manual that I can find). I haven't owned a car with struts before, but understand that most foks replace them in the 60-75k mile area. The car still handles fine, and I haven't noticed any unusal tire wear. Pep Boys quoted me $150/strut, plus $50 labor/strut, and an alignment...over $800 out the door. So here are my questions: 1. When are most folks replacing their struts? 2. How much should a strut cost? 3. Which manufacturer makes the best strut? 4. Can I install them myself as a "shade tree mechanic" or is this a job best left to the pros? 5. What should the total out the door price be? Thanks in advance for the help. Ken