6R Suspension Help Needed

[TRhysBaker]

Hey all first post on the forum.

I’m in need of some advice as my polo is due for a suspension change due to showing all signs of usual wear; harsh and uneasy ride, leaking oil and squeaking noises.

I’m looking at doing the work myself and ordering the parts myself as well. Does anyone know what parts I specifically need for a full change? Such as shocks, springs and mounts etc. Do I need to purchase and bushes or anything similar for the installation? And where would a good place to buy all the parts from?

Many thanks and thank you in advanced to any help.

[spartacus68]

Speak to VW dealer parts first for breakdown and part numbers. Once you've recovered from shock, look at alternative quality parts. Meyle HD for wishbones and droplinks, Sach for springs, Bilstein for shocks. Allow more time than you think it will take to fit, and don't forget thinks like bump stops, etc. Ideally you dont want to do this on the drive at this time of year.

Get a full alignment on completion.

[TRhysBaker]

Thanks for your help! I wasn’t looking to go genuine parts due to price but wanted some good quality parts.
Also I’m only looking to replace the strut mounts down to the shocks and springs. Or should I replace the whole lot?

Speak to VW dealer parts first for breakdown and part numbers. Once you've recovered from shock, look at alternative quality parts. Meyle HD for wishbones and droplinks, Sach for springs, Bilstein for shocks. Allow more time than you think it will take to fit, and don't forget thinks like bump stops, etc. Ideally you dont want to do this on the drive at this time of year.

Get a full alignment on completion.

[iichel]

OEM dampers are made by Sachs. Another respected brand is Febi/Bilstein or Eibach.

[spartacus68]

Thanks for your help! I wasn’t looking to go genuine parts due to price but wanted some good quality parts.
Also I’m only looking to replace the strut mounts down to the shocks and springs. Or should I replace the whole lot?

I said VW parts, as some time, depending on age if vehicle you can get parts discount. The part number is useful too. If you're replacing shocks and springs, then worn components such us top mounts, wishbone bushes or drop links need to be done. It's labour intensive, so why fit new parts if you can't get the full benefit? I was going to ask how long do you plan to keep the car? A suspension rebuild, then minimum of 2 years, otherwise get shot and simply buy something else.

[TRhysBaker]

Thanks for your help! I wasn’t looking to go genuine parts due to price but wanted some good quality parts.
Also I’m only looking to replace the strut mounts down to the shocks and springs. Or should I replace the whole lot?

I said VW parts, as some time, depending on age if vehicle you can get parts discount. The part number is useful too. If you're replacing shocks and springs, then worn components such us top mounts, wishbone bushes or drop links need to be done. It's labour intensive, so why fit new parts if you can't get the full benefit? I was going to ask how long do you plan to keep the car? A suspension rebuild, then minimum of 2 years, otherwise get shot and simply buy something else.

Thanks and I’m planning on keeping the car max another year as I’m saving for something better. What would be the better option then? Do it myself? Get it done somewhere? Or sell the car?

[spartacus68]

You rarely get money back from a car if you decide to sell. Anything older than 4-5 years, then you"re really doing it for yourself and driving comfort. What's the model, age and mileage?

If it were me, do enough to get it through an MOT. You can probably leave wishbones. They need done +100k miles. Stick on new springs, shocks, and front drop links. Double check if there's an upper mount bearing on the front, if so, replace too. Labour for this would be a money pit, so if you're handy with a spanner, it's an interesting and satisfying job.