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Front End Questions

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Old 09-12-2011, 08:34 AM
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So, my GXP with 100k on the ticker is experiencing a rather harsh ride. Going over bumps not huge in size sets off my traction control light and makes the car rattle like a tin can. Took it to the Stealership who diagnosed the issue as worn front struts, but when the guy from the warranty company inspected the car, they denied my claim stating that there was no visible damage to the struts. Does our front end have more in common with a Cadillac, and should I take it to a Cadillac Dealer for a second opinion, or replace the struts myself. There has never been anything replaced on the front end since I bought the vehicle with 29K. I did a search on struts and saw a reference to using the KYB GR2 struts instead of the FE5'*, and feedback on this? Thanks in advance.....

Tony
Old 09-12-2011, 09:59 AM
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Before replacing the struts, inspect everything. Check the sub frame bushings, check the ball joints, all connections. From what your saying it sounds more like something is loose.
Old 09-12-2011, 10:09 AM
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Thanks Dan, any GM dealer, or a Cadillac specific one?
Old 09-12-2011, 10:20 AM
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I know very little about the GXP, sorry I can't be more help.
Old 09-12-2011, 11:38 AM
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i dont have a gxp but ive only had one car where the gm shocks or struts lasted more than 50k. i have used a few different kyb shocks/struts and i can say gm oem stuff doesnt even come close to the longitivity and quality of ride that the kyb'* have. their website says 335037 is the right PN for gr2'* as long as you dont have electronic susp. even if you dont want to do it yourself you can buy them and have a shop put them on. I usually get them from amazon.

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Old 09-13-2011, 10:35 PM
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I'm with JW and think the warranty service is taking you for a ride. 100k on OEM struts. It is well past time. GM or Cadillac. Althought the FE5 suspension is pretty specific to the GXP. I just prefer the local Caddy dealer here because they have better service and honored the warranty. But it has run out. If you get the Monroe quick struts or any complete strut assembly, it is a very easy swap to do yourself. Also check the front sway bar bushings. Mine were shot at 48K.
Old 09-14-2011, 06:29 AM
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i dont like the quick struts, especially for special suspensions, you know the springs you have are good and the right ones for your car, the quick struts could have springs for a se or reused and one could be more worn than the other, who knows. it only takes 10-15min more to use the spring compressor. you dont even have to buy it you can rent it from autozone for free
Old 09-14-2011, 08:44 AM
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For FWD springs w/100K miles on them? They are beat, and really not special.
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