2007 Exige.
32,000 miles (road use).
The Bilstein shocks are looking a bit tired, they are 18yrs old, so understandable.
If I remember correctly, at the last service, the mechanic said one of the rears was showing signs of weeping.
Two things…
If the rear is weeping and based on age/use. Do I swap for a new set of Bilstein’s or something else?
If the rear is NOT weeping, what is the life expectancy of the Bilstein’s at 18yrs old?
Nitron recommend an inspection every 2 years.
I think you are probably due for a rebuild at the very least.
Anecdotally I’d say age is worse than mileage with a few things on the Toyota platform.
Billies wept on both of mine at around the same age. One was at 40k, one was 15k.
Crank seals too. Keep an eye on those.
Funnily enough, I’ve just come across the same on the MOT (18 years old and about 39k miles). Didn’t seem like cause for concern as it was very minimal but at least noticeable.
My problem is I have just upgraded to spitfire links which has freed up the rear end and so might have allowed the dampers to move where they hadn’t before. Probably best to clean off and monitor (or so I tell myself right now!)
Interesting, I have done the rear toe links, front drop links and front ARB bushes. Could be related.
Looks like a worthwhile job over winter fitting new Billies (which aren’t as cheap as they used to be).
Contemplated looking at a refurbishment, but might leave that until there is a definitely a problem or get the underside refurbished. Don’t suppose you had any good recommendations ahead of time for a refurb on the billies?
Not looked at the refurb route but might be worth a call. Possibly cheaper to renew.