Roadblock

Hello, I had a broken rear spring so I changed them both out and now the car seems to bottom out over bumps whenever anyone sits in the back. It even seems to look a bit lower when unloaded. I am very experienced with these types of jobs but have never had one go wrong. The shock/spring assy. bolts into the car pretty straight forward and keeps the top and bottom at a standard distance so all I can think of is that the springs are too soft. Anyone second my conclusion?

Thanks,
RB

HBAudi

RB,

Assuming the dampers/shock absorbers are good, were the replacement springs new or used? It is entirely possible you were shipped the incorrect springs or if used, they were no longer serviceable. There is also a top and bottom to the springs on the Quattro models; is it possible they were mounted on the damper/shock absorber incorrectly?

Hope this helps!

Roadblock

Replacement springs were new. Shock absorbers were good. Springs were exact same height as the old ones, I compared them side by side before install. I made sure that the new springs were installed the same way up as the old ones, top and bottom were positioned firmly against the top and bottom stops. Any other opinions? I have read in my searches that some complain about having trouble getting replacement springs that are equal to OEM ride height. Maybe they are just crappy quality and are not firm enough?

HBAudi

You may want to exchange them for new OEM springs from an Audi dealership or quality aftermarket springs that conform to TUV specifications. Due to the age of the B5 models, some replacement parts are now sourced from manufacturers outside the EU with the resulting suspect quality. I found that H&R springs with German-made Bilstein dampers work well. Another good choice would be Koni as they are adjustable for stiffness and work with both OEM and aftermarket springs.

Roadblock

Thanks for all the help guys. The springs are definately going back.

Roadblock

Guy won't take the springs back, says it's not his fault I got the wrong ones. I really don't want to shell out another $200 for another set so what are my options, if any? Can I use spacers to firm them up?

Thanks,

RB

Roadblock

Any opinions at all?

HBAudi

You may want to search on eBay or craigslist.org to find the springs. Otherwise, purchase the correct ones from a reputable vendor by providing the VIN so there is no confusion as to which ones are suitable for your vehicle.

Roadblock

So you wouldn't recommend spacers then?

AudiMick

There are no short-cuts here. The laws of physics cannot be changed.

Spacers do not change spring rates, they only raise/ lower the car.

If your car is level at the moment a spacer at the rear will give the car a nose down stance.

Buy a matched full set (front and rear) of springs and shocks, either used from car that hasn't experienced salt in its life or a new aftermarket set from a good vendor.