[Saaabiebobby!]

So I have a 2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T, my suspension is shot I’m getting the very bad clunk of death, So it’s time to upgrade suspension, I don’t currently have the money to go all out and get coil overs so I am looking for knowledge on performance struts and springs that would complete the suspension! Thanks to anybody that could toss knowledge my way!

 

[jvanabra]

Why not just fix the problem rather than spend the money on cheap stuff?

 

[Saaabiebobby!]

Why not just fix the problem rather than spend the money on cheap stuff?

Well the Suspension is the stock suspension in the car was made in 2008 also has 110,000 miles so I think the best thing to do is to replace the struts because everything else is replaced swaybar links inner and outer tire rods, wheel bearing , cv axles L/R. So it’s best to replace it..

 

[Bob12312357]

I'd probably just look at Sachs struts since they're relatively cheap & straightforward. New struts should get new bearings/mounts as well. I personally don't change springs at that mileage unless there's an issue (cracking/corrosion). YMMV but if you have a 'clunk of death' your issue probably wasn't the struts

 

[Mimmi]

I'd check front springs carefully. Typical symptom of broken spring is clunk.

 

[mstrjon32]

Clunking could be broken spring, worn strut bearings, worn end links, or other things. If it is original suspension, it should be fully checked over.

Both of my cars just developed a cracked right rear spring at the same time. Quite a coincidence, considering as far as I know both sets are original and one car has covered more than twice the distance of the other.

I ordered a KYB replacement pair for the saloon and a full set of Eibach lowering springs for the estate (30mm front/20mm rear), and of course neither has arrived yet. 🙄 I have KYB struts on both cars, they seem to be a good combination of quality and affordability. Will see how we go with the lowering springs and the KYB, I might have to replace them with Bilstein B6.