Car "bouncy"

[swchang]

For the past few months, I've noticed that my car bounces up and down more when going over bumps. When I corner in a spirited manner and hit a bump, it feels like the car actually leaves the ground briefly.

Any thoughts as to what might be the issue? Rear shocks? I have an 04 with about 165k miles.

[BMWCurves]

When were the shocks last replaced?

[swchang]

Never...

[sillieidiot]

yeah you need a suspension refresh

[swchang]

So, what do you think needs to be replaced? I'm pretty ignorant when it comes to this stuff, as will become evident very shortly:

Shocks? Springs? Coils? Sways?
Front and rear?

[BMWCurves]

If the car has never had its shocks replaced, they're long overdue, as are most of the suspension components.

Let me direct you to my suspension refresh guide: http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showt...miles-10-years

[swchang]

Thanks! Will check it out now.

[GotZHP]

yeah you need a suspension refresh

+1

My car has been feeling the same recently. Started my refresh project with new tie rods. Looking to then get shocks/struts/springs next. My car has been bouncy too now that I took the ~200lbs of tools that have been in the back for over a month now.

[BMWCurves]

Thanks! Will check it out now.

I should add that there are other components not in that guide that you might consider, such as tie rods and other bushings. Other members can chime in on what they think ought to be replaced in addition to the parts mentioned in my thread.

[swchang]

That is a crapton of parts that you replaced. I was hoping it would be something simple like, "Replace the rear shocks." Sigh.

Well, I'm planning on DDing this car for another three years, and then keeping it on as a third car / autocross car afterwards. I guess it's probably worth it to put some money into it. Would be a lot easier if I could just tell my indy shop to "fix the bounciness," though...