front shocks independent from rear shocks?

[ammophobia]

So I had a problem with my rear shocks, car still under warranty, so I came to the dealership and they replaced the rear shocks for free. My car is 3 years old. My question is, is it ok to have fresh rear shocks with 3 years old heavily used front shocks? Will it affect comfort and handling in any way? Should I replace the front shocks also?

Also, I heard it's recommended to realign the wheels after replacing shocks, when I told the dealership this, they said it is necessary to realign if the front shocks are replaced, but not with the rear shocks. Is it true?

Thank you very much :)

[schleppy]

Originally Posted by ammophobia

So I had a problem with my rear shocks, car still under warranty, so I came to the dealership and they replaced the rear shocks for free. My car is 3 years old. My question is, is it ok to have fresh rear shocks with 3 years old heavily used front shocks? Will it affect comfort and handling in any way? Should I replace the front shocks also?

Also, I heard it's recommended to realign the wheels after replacing shocks, when I told the dealership this, they said it is necessary to realign if the front shocks are replaced, but not with the rear shocks. Is it true?

Thank you very much :)

I don't think it really matters a whole lot especially if your car isn't exhibiting any odd driving behavior. If it were me I'd replace the fronts. People on here sell OEM, low mileage shocks for cheap ALL the time.

Your dealer is correct, you don't have to do anything when you alter the rear.

[ozmdd]

^ +1

Your dealer is legit, and correct about alignment. There really isn't anything to adjust on the rear alignment without shims. Your front struts should easily last more than 5 years unless you live on REALLY bad roads or you've run lowering springs on the oem struts, so I wouldn't stress at all about it unless you think the ride is poor. If you do replace them, upgrade to somethign better than stock, even if its autozone stuff.

[1.5]

if its free go for it lol. If you have to pay out of pocket, then save your money and grab some coilovers!!!

[SilverBack]

Originally Posted by ozmdd

Your front struts should easily last more than 5 years unless you live on REALLY bad roads or you've run lowering springs on the oem struts

How long would OEM struts last on lowering springs in an area with somewhat bad roads and doing semi-monthly track runs?