Tightening up - suspension

[Joe11700]

Hi All

My 2005 Dynamique 1.9 dci wallows about on bumpy roads like a drunk hippopotamus, especially (I think) on the rear axle. My son has a hell of a time back there.

Renault bods here in France suggested new shock absorbers on the rear, and Controle Technique (MOT) pointed out uneven tyre wear on the front wheels, as if the camber was out. I have read that this tyre wear can indicate that the suspension is generally tanked. Here come the questions:

- Will ride improve considerably if I replace the shock absorbers?
- Should I replace them on all four corners?
- Do I need to replace springs and bushings at the same time?
- Can I get a slightly stiffer set-up with my choice of parts?

Any input would be highly appreciated - please bear in mind my knowledge of cars and car parts is very basic and derived mainly from Gran Turismo!

Thanks, Joe

[MilosB]

Stiffer shocks wont help the wobleing, the shock is there for fast movments ie bumps etc, spring stiffnes dictates how a car will behave in a turn. Stock shocks are more than up to the job with no wory.

You should check the shocks at specialist and they will tell you if they are worn. Always change in pair (lef and right hand) and get you suspension aligned .
It can also be due to worn out rubber bushings on the suspension.

[Joe11700]

Thanks for response Milos. If the car is wobbling excessively, do you think this is because the springs are worn as well?

I want to stiffen the car from its present state. Do you think I should just replace with stock parts or could I go a 'little' bit harder? I note you have lowered your 1.9dci. How does it handle?

Joe

[Clayman]

Hi

Glad for this as last weekend I went up to Dales in my '57 1.9dci hatchback and on a couple of depressions it really wallowed in the face of "spirited driving". So I guess I need to get it checked as it is too soft for my taste but does not need to be as firm as my old Impreza STi. Any recommendations?

[MilosB]

get them lowered on stiffer springs, and thats it, you will be more than happy. on 235/40/18 and lowered in hard turns, it barely rolls but really barely.
height wise