Rav4 suspension work

I wasn't sure where to post this but I'm looking for some feedback on my wife's 2012 Rav4. I know we have a lot of members that have done suspension work on a variety of vehicles, not just Tundras. My suspension knowledge is limited to the Tundra.

Our Rav4 just hit 110K and is likely due for some suspension work. I was planning to replace the front struts and rear shocks.

The Rav4 appears to have a front strut/spring sold separately instead of a coilover. I really don't want to mess with a spring compressor. Should I reuse the springs and have a shop assemble them before I install?

The rear appear to be a shock and spring separate from one another. I'm trying to figure out my options here.

Is it safe to leave the rest alone for now? I can't see a need to replace the control arms and unless I find issues I'll likely leave the ball joints alone.


https://parts.toyotaofcoolsprings.c...4-gas/front-suspension--struts-and-components

https://parts.toyotaofcoolsprings.c...-2-5l-l4-gas/rear-suspension--rear-suspension

 

I'd do the shocks/struts and let the other stuff go unless there's play in it. Maybe have some sway bar links on hand since they like to break.

KYB is running a rebate right now for $50 off 2 struts and 2 shocks. They have a Strut-plus which is the whole strut/spring/mount assembly.

This looks like a pretty decent video showing the removal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjZUJuGyuRU

 

Thanks. I'm not familiar with KYB. Pretty good brand?

Since the rear spring is separate from the rear shock is it common to just replace the shock and leave the spring alone?

 

They aren't Bilstein good, but IMO they're better than the Monroe options.

I wouldn't mess with the rear spring unless they're broken or sag badly.

 

Anyone know what a shop would normally charge to swap original springs over to new struts? I'd rather not mess with a spring compressor.

 

If you're bringing everything in loose maybe $30? Shouldn't take more than a half hour at most.

 

I did our 2011 a few years back with KYB's. Swapped the springs myself. Wasn't too hard but I've stared down and faced the spring compressor a bunch of times to feel comfortable doing so.

The rear shock's mount bolt is stuck between a carrier on the back knuckle. You have to undo it to access the bolt. I have a video of it up on youtube if you search.

 

Wife's rav4 v6 has the KYBs, not a fan honestly... Stick with OEM or the Sport Tokicos

 

https://www.rocky-road.com/eibach-toyota-rav4-lift-kit.html

 

It's 2WD. I've had it on a few forrest roads and does ok. I actually really like the Rav. It's been a great car.

 

I'm leaning that way. New OEM struts are only $100 per side. I was planning to reuse the springs.

 

@ninjajay have you replaced the lower ball joints? Curious how easy it was.

 

I'll check out your video. I found a thread on a Rav4 forum and everyone was cursing the engineers for those rear shocks. They say it sucks.

 

I put KYB's on all 4 corners of our 2007 earlier this year. That thing ripped in the corners.