I took my car to the mechanic and and he said I needed a new front left strut. I was just wondering what strut I should get to replace the one on my 04 G35 coupe? Should I go with an OEM or is there a better aftermarket option? Also is there one that will lower or improve my car's ride and handling. Are struts and shocks the same thing?

 

if you want to do it right, you'll want to go coilovers.

check out this thread to get you started: https://g35driver.com/forums/brakes-...ew-thread.html

 

Are coilovers the same thing as struts?

 

to put it simply..a strut can be seperated from the spring. A coilover replaces the strut and spring.

 

He asked for a lower ride AND handling. Most coilovers won't do both too well.

 

I guess I'm lucky then...running hypermax III's...I'm lowered and couldnt be happier with the handling and adjustability.

 

Just because you feel more Gs does not mean the car is getting through the turns faster. More Gs just means your suspension is stiffer.

 

no one said anything about Gs Besides, a stiffer suspension is not always better.

 

If you're happy with the ride quality and handling I think OEM would be fine. There are other options out there that could improve handling or lower your car more. Springs/shocks, coilovers, etc.

Most budget setups though won't improve handling too much, especially if you go super low.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strut

our cars' shocks are not struts.

And depends on your definition of "handling." Stock suspension works pretty well for what it was designed to do (decent roadholding/roll control at the limit, good balance, ability to support wide range of loads, enough clearance for a daily driver, decent comfort).

Depending on what you go for, you will lose out on some or all of those things.

And also yes, many coilover systems will not get you better handling. From what I hear, bilstein, ohlin, koni are some good brands.

 

Agreed.