Which dampers

[jimmy156]

So it looks like I will need new dampers on the front of my mk6 golf GTi, not necessarily looking at a performance upgrade, just OEM replacement.

Should I be looking at VW parts, or is there an aftermarket brand that are just as good or better? The chap at the local garage said that what they usually use are higher quality, the brand begins with an “M” but I forget what he said!

[ninjag]

Could it be Monroe shocks? I've got one on the rear of mine that was done just before I bought it and the mechanic at work said they were a very good brand, although I'm not so sure and suspect premium budget instead.

I like Sachs and also Bilstein if going down the pattern part route. I put Meyle HD on my current car last year and they are doing a grand job so far.

[jimmy156]

Yes Munroe is what he said. They seem to be slightly less expensive than sachs. Thanks for the info! Is the one you mention an upgrade or a like for like replacement?

[ninjag]

jimmy156 said:

Yes Munroe is what he said. They seem to be slightly less expensive than sachs. Thanks for the info! Is the one you mention an upgrade or a like for like replacement?

I think Sachs are a replacement, but Bilstein may be an upgrade or maybe offer both? I think there is also a difference between Febi Bilstein and just Bilstein. Worth digging a little before buying just to be sure.

The Meyle HD I got was for arms and bushes and I guess was technically an upgrade to heavier duty bushes - well that's the claim!

[Belle427]

It can become a bit of a tricky decision, if your happy with the car as is then stick to oem which is probably Sachs.
A lot go for Bilstein as an upgrade but normally choose to do it as a full kit.
I believe some later cars may use Monroe dampers which I always thought were a budget option tbh.
Stick to quality brands though and you won’t go far wrong.

[VeeReihenmotor6]

Go for Sachs as a direct oem replacement. Bilstein is another options but may as well go Bilstein yellows (or another performance shock) if changing from stock.

[jimmy156]

Presumably upgrading to something like the bilsteins would only be worth it with all four corners, which is probably a bit steep at the moment!

[Belle427]

I'd consider doing the springs as well personally and top mounts.
Probably not what you want to hear but if its a keeper.
Autodoc are normally ok on prices.

[jimmy156]

hmmm man maths is starting to come in to play here...

If i'm doing both front dampers and paying the labour, they may as well do the springs whilst they're in there...

I had an advisory for a corroded rear spring on the last MOT, I may as well get that done at the same time...

Whilst they are changing the spring and paying the labour, they may as well change that damper too...

There is no point in changing 3 out of the 4 corners, lets do them all...

If I am doing the all, why not "upgrade" the suspension to something better quality

a slippery slope.

The only thing with "after market suspension" is that everything seems to be lowering kits. The non-adjustable bilsteins are 50mm lower, which I don't really want.

Does anyone make a good quality aftermarket coilover that is a modest (or no) drop, but will give an improved ride / control (without breaking the bank!)

[Belle427]

I put a Vwr racingline kit from Awesome Gti on my Edition 30 not long after buying it.
I bought it with Eibach lowering springs on it and the ride was far too crashy for my liking.
The Vwr kit had a nice subtle drop and was no harsher than oem.
Not coilovers granted but I wouldn't bother with them personally on a road car.