Kyb struts vs oem. wynn, Georgina Rudkus and 6 .
Kyb struts vs oem When it comes to automotive suspension parts, two names often bubble to the top of the conversation: KYB Excel-G and Monroe OESpectrum shocks. X. Hopefully, KYB America will maintain a high level of quality control. They have a press release stating that struts from KYB America are going to Mexico. The choice between OEM and aftermarket shocks and struts typically comes down to quality, cost, and performance. Unfortunately there is one major difference. I run KYB's on a Lexus & Corvette also. KYB assemblies come with horrible mounts (not close to OEM at all) that tend Same here. This car’s last destination is the junkyard but I also want to keep it safely running for IMO, KYB felt a tad bit softer than OEM. I very occasionally tow a Kendon motorcycle trailer. Bilstein B4 vs B6, Kyb vs OEM. Jump to Latest I'm not looking for a stiffer than OEM ride. OEM shocks last slightly longer compared to KYB shocks. Still hope the OEM shocks are from a bad batch and KYB has a revised version which offers much better comfort like the later versions of Honda -305 or -408. They've always worked well for me, and I do some local level autocross. KYB's on Rockauto are $95. famoustale and Raytheeagle like this. Monroe is currently owned by Tenneco, a large automotive parts supplier. 5K views 7 replies 2 participants last post by Sinecure Feb 20, 2009. A8driver Discussion starter. Or the years of overweight scrapping. Gabriel Vs. So as too the rear struts? If KYB made the front who made the back? What is one to do? What strut would be a good match to the Excel G? Sachs? 2003 ML500, 2004 ML350, 2005 ML350SE, 2003 SL500, 2022 F150 XLT, 2025 GLE450E. 2. Stay away from the KYB strut mounts. Replacing the struts and shocks on a 2006 Infiniti M35 Base. KYB gives their quick struts a lifetime warranty, but only a year for mounts purchased separately. As much as possible, I wanted to use a strut that will accept the OEM stabilizer links as I recently replaced the front stabilizer bar link using OEM parts from a seller in Korea. Joined Jan 1, 2018 Messages 1,195 Location San Antonio, TX. I felt no difference compare to the original GM struts and they are still fine on the vehicle at 120k now. Thread starter The Critic; Start date Feb 18, 2013; Status Not open for further replies. As for Bilstein, the B6s are more "sporty" than the B4s I am going to replace my struts soon and would like opinions on KYB GR2 vs Monroe sensa track shocks? Both are similar in price and I am After reading many pages of threads on struts it looks like either the OEM or the KYB GR-2 are the choices. This is due to the fact that the KYB strut does not extend nearly as far as the OEM Sachs. Final Thoughts: KYB vs Monroe. Overview of KYB. Not a big of deal. Seems I've seen on other forums, where they fail early. Monroe vs KYB vs Moog strut mounts. When it comes to suspension systems, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is typically the default choice for many car owners. KYB SM5664 $38ea-Our OEM Shocks are made by KYB, so it is likely the Strut Mounts are as well. The available RL shocks are closer to mediocre than excellent from both Monroe and KYB. We review the features, bene On cars like honda, toyota, nissan etc, oem struts as well. No Monroe, never Monroe unless you need quick struts. Recently I had to replace the front struts on my 2006 4Runner, and had a really good experience with a complete strut replacement kit from KYB called KYB strut plus. Since day 1, every single morning I would hear a loud bang while backing up from my KYB EXCEL-G Shocks & Struts are built with one purpose RESTORE the ride, control & handling back to the way your vehicle manufacturer intended. Thank you. The OEM ones are Sachs and are still going strong. KYB struts with OEM integrated mounts and new OEM springs would pretty much make for a new OEM assembly, I think it's a very good choice. But I have to agree that the OEM strut is well made and may be the best choice. Also, not all Genuine Toyota shocks and struts are made by KYB - some are made by Tokico. Adjustable. While KYB SM5423 From what I have seen here and on youtube, the best way to ensure original ride quality and performance is to use OEM struts rather than the entire assembly offered by I have two choices - OEM Toyota which will be good for another 10+ years or KYB Excel-Gs. The choice between KYB vs Monroe shock absorbers ultimately hinges on individual preferences and priorities. And I’m alluding to OEM replacements. No longer using ball bearings but a cheap plastic ring for the springs to "boing" when turning. spasm3. OEM is guaranteed to be restore ride quality for sure. Jan 6, 2022 #9 I would worry about the strut bearings. KYB is not even standing behind the warranty claims of these so-called kits and is leaving the customers completely dry and out of close to $400 on these kits. das_peikko. Asking about a second opinion (ie "Is the shop trying to fleece me?"), please read through CJM8515's post on the subject. KYB shocks and struts are vehicle specific and offer original equipment control and handling. KYB struts vs OEM Toyota struts made by KYB. Car Stereo; here are the overall damping rates of the three KYB shocks. I was able to get a good discount on parts and so the total cost including alignment would be just about $150 more than if an The car world is constantly engaged in the quest for perfection, especially when it comes to vehicle suspension systems. Excellent quality: Honda doesn't use low quality parts for anything, ever. Struts - KYB vs. Select your year, make and model, or search by V. The result is a ‘springy’ new suspension that will feel decent enough for non-picky car owners. Standard KYB struts are competitively priced against brands like Monroe and Gabriel. The bearing they included in the box was lose, it didn't fit properly and that's unacceptable for me. Monroe's quick struts have a lifetime warranty for their quick strut, but no warranty for their mounts. The price Honda is asking for the complete strut assembly is very high currently. Go kyb or OEM highly reconmend. wynn, Georgina Rudkus and 6 Gen 2 folks are coming to the Gen3 forum and muddying the feedback. 2006 SE-R/AT. F. But what about cars like saturn s, where there is no oem strut available( and not oem mounts either ( ac/delco professional are not the same as oem). I use Mas industries Premium XL sway bar link front and rear and use OEM toyota sway bar bushing front and back. KYB is okay but always stiffer than advertised imo. Step up to their OE replacement Excel-G or AGX lines for advanced technology and performance optimized for spirited driving. 1 of 2 Go to page. But which one is the right choice for your vehicle? This detailed comparison will help KYB Excel-G Vs. Thanks in advance. Looking for a recommendation on what manufacturer to go with. Reactions: 0dyfamily and s_ribs. Their FAQ is vague. KYB struts is a little smaller in diameter, so the OEM struts bellow is a bit loose, I used cable tie to secure it. KYB does make the OEM strut. I felt the Will do by the beginning of Dec. ) Iirc, Subaru oem struts are KYB , but made in Japan. KYB on the Tribeca? -Mark 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 2006 GMC Envoy XL 2003 Subaru Baja 5MT Sport Former Subarus: 08 Tribeca 12 Impreza 03 Forester 95 Outback. KYB stands out for those who value a driving experience that aligns with OEM standards, I can get the KYB Excel-G shocks for $39/piece. Both have their unique selling points and dedicated fan bases, but when KYB is running a promo on their Strut Plus - buy two and receive $50 back. Bilstein vs. KYB. Buy the oem, same thing as kyb #2 JC91006, Sep 28, 2019. Mostly street driven with the occasional fire road. To pin OEM as 100%, KYB felt like 95% of OEM. Any feedback or better suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Joined: Sep 5, 2019 31 13 0 I have seen this multiple times. Jump to Latest 23K views 22 replies 14 participants last post by Beck Mar 20, 2014. $50 a pair is small change for I am not certain, but I believe that KYB manufactures the struts for Subaru; at any rate, the replacement KYB struts are similar to OEM and have worked fine in our 2011. My experience with Tokico were better on a Civic, meaning exactly 100% using the same ranking. Racingline FSB, Grounding kit, Nismo CAI, DW65c fuel pump, UpRev Osiris Tuner, Sachs SuperTouring struts/shocks, SL springs front/SER springs rear, Optima Battery relocation to trunk, 18" Maxima rims, DrawTite hitch, Yakima Highlite rack, Kumho LX Platinum, Custom foil+ensolite 1lb/sqft sound deadening, 40% 3M tint Rally raced and street scrap tons at a time on Monroe quick struts (not rated anywhere close for this) though never had a problem even after racing either. Bilstein. KYB Shocks and Struts. Agreeing with all here -- OEM in the front (KYB is a solid 2nd choice) and definitely OEM in the rear. Save Share KYB struts range from around $50 for basic OE replacement units up to $250 or more for their high-performance Excel-G series. Does anyone have the numbers on kyb springs vs oem? I've tried searching here, but only found values relating to the struts. I got on line prices of about $114 for the OEM SE struts and about KYB strut mounts/bearings VS OEM? I am planning to change struts on my 02 camry xle, 4 cyl, 130 K miles. ” notice “oe quality” used here in a sales geared description. Reactions: Replacing front struts on a CR-V later this month. Factor in buying OEM strut mounts and bearing into your price shopping. The main difference between them is their life expectancy. Anyway, KYB mounts are also OEM for some car brands and also Monroe for other brands, but that's not a guarantee that aftermarket parts will be of the same quality. Reply reply jkjeeper06 • I disagree, Monroe can't hold a candle to KYB, especially their preassembled quick-struts Reply reply Ford_Trans_Guy • That’s fine, like I said I have no experience using KYB so I have no baseline on them. #5 The Critic, Oct 4, 2019. I bought a VW GTI new, sold it to my brother with 166K on it and never replaced the struts. G. Since OEM parts are just re-branded, then marked up $$, it is likely the KYB ones are the exact same as OEM, but at half On 2016 summer, i installed 4 KYB struts plus for an 05 Camry V6, front struts plus (SR4097 +4096) Rear (SR4086 + SR4085). The set of four is almost $2000 . 122 posts · Joined 2013 Add to quote; Only show this user #1 · Mar 17, 2014. Even before I jumped back then I read up heavily on Struts: Bilstein Vs. Feb 19, 2013 KYB is OEM for most of the Japanese Manufactures I think. I heard people say KYB shocks are a bit stiffer compared to OEM shocks. I've had KYB's made in japan and taiwan quick struts on the front of the Focus. If you want OEM-style gas shocks, go for the Excel-G gas shocks instead of dealing The thing I found out a while ago was that Mazda back in the day used KYB built struts for the 626. It is now supple and smooth. How Long Do KYB Shocks Last? KYB shocks are very robust and will serve you for a long time. Joined Oct 10, 2008 Messages 19,707 Location Sunny Florida. 1K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by Hayabusafalcon Apr 19, 2024. Koni Vs. TRQ Struts vs OEM. Thanks for posting on r/MechanicAdvice!Please review the rules. OEM. Tediz421 • yeah the KYBs are great. The KYB struts themselves seemed to be well-liked, at least on that platform. Under normal driving conditions, you need to replace the shocks after 50000 to 100000 One thing the Euro car makers do better than Japanese makes is longer lasting shocks/struts. x-ingover Discussion starter. It's time for strut replacement on my wife's V50. To list the four more important Kyb vs Monroe vs Honda OEM rear shocks? But depending on price difference, OEM usually has vote. I’m sorry to hear that. Learn More: KYB Strut Mounts and Boots; FAQs About KYB Suspension Products 1. Most will probably never notice the difference as they are OEM replacement. Using KYB bare struts, but Monroe top mounts. The KYB struts are good quality and look very similar to the Sachs. Both Monroe and KYB are up to OEM standards, meaning they work well on Toyotas and other vehicle brands. The world of automotive suspension is a rich and varied landscape filled with numerous brands and components. That is what I did on my 06 LE and it has been 54k miles since I replaced my 2010 Enclave front with KYB Excel-G struts in 2017 at 88k. Lifespan: 50-80,000 miles quality but at a fraction of the dealer's price. 1; 2; Next. I've noticed my car bottomed out and replaced the oem at around 106k- 01 Had decided to go with OEM shocks and struts because I'm getting mixed review on Monroe and KYB performance. Overall, stiffness between the Gas-a-just andthe GR2’s are the same, the difference is the GR-2's valving which stiffens thingsup from a oem setting to that of the Gas-a-just units. When it comes to vehicle suspension, struts play an integral role in ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. The KYB struts and rear KYB's does not have a direct bolt-on front strut for this year. S. Those are the only two vehicles with KYB. Otherwise, get OEM mounts and Bilstein shocks. KYB only makes shocks for the ML. people have died working on those Reply reply big-pp-analiator Struts? KYB vs. Looking for recommendationsKYB vs Monroe? Looks like recommended KYB product is the GR-2 or EXCEL-G and for Monroe it is OESpectrum. Oct 14, 2024 #4 Nukeman7 said: Others here may disagree, but IME, the KYB struts are higher quality/more durable than the Monroe and I’ve emailed KYB America asking where the Quick struts are manufactured, COO. A strut is basically a spring and shock in one, on the rear there are independent springs and shocks. Post's about bodywork, accident damage, paint, dent/ding, questions it belongs in r/Autobody To update- I got the car back a little while ago and the problem was indeed the struts. Learn More » KYB STRUT-PLUS Complete Assemblies utilize KYB’s the same Find the right shock, strut or strut assembly for your vehicle. But there is no option but to make a comparison between KYB Excel G VS OEM shocks when it comes to picking the best. KYB has been producing shocks and struts since 1918 and is one of the most popular suppliers in the automotive industry. . Replacing my Rear Struts on my 98 gs300, people are telling me I should replace the whole assembly at the same time and wondering which brand between FCS Automotive and Unity should I get as the Monroe brand is out of my budget at the moment. Could you pl. I was on RA and settled on KYB strut plus (with the springs). But in reality they are very different struts. Definitely, I'm disappointed with the KYB mounts. 1. No noises expect for somewhat floaty ride. The automotive market offers a plethora of strut brands to choose from, but today we’re taking a deep dive into two Learn more about the several important differences between KYB Gas-A-Just vs MonoMax vs Excel G shocks. Just did Monroe quick struts on my Avalon had a blown stock strut didn’t even have to think about which brand to pick. KYB might be a distant second, but OEM is unfortunately the best option for the front at this time. I have 115k on the original struts and shocks and the ride is very rough at slow speeds. KYB quick strut threads around the net. After taking to account sagging springs, worn rubber pieces and having to buy OEM mounts and bearings, the most economical option was actually to go with OEM up front. KYB quick struts Honda does offer OEM quick struts from the dealer, but they are quite expensive. I. KYB too) Strut assemblies; KYB is the certified OEM replacement for most Asian vehicles, including Toyota, Honda, etc. At present, they hold a great position in the aftermarket. This brand of struts emerges from KYB Corporation, a firm known for producing I would think it would be one of the big strut mfrs like KYB (who does make OEM Toyota in some models), but if I knew, perhaps there is a non-Honda channel to source the OEM struts. N. *"lifetime warranty", easy to replace at the many retail I've read some posts on here recommending KYB struts, but I'm seeing mixed reviews online re these Strut-Plus Assemblies. IE less travel. 133 posts · Joined 2007 Add to quote; Only show this user #1 · Feb 16, 2009. , License Plate or by KYB Part Number. The kit consists of a fully assembled st Just doing a quick look, you can find OEM Toyota struts (most likely made by Tokico) for around $120 each. Some Toyota OEM struts are supplied by KYB, but not sure about the xB units. The only difference you'll find Main Differences between Monroe vs. It had gray "KYB" struts on it. I installed KYB quick struts in December 2013 (187,500 miles) on all 4 corners. Upper KYB-pro quick struts vs OEM. Idk what brand the oem for the part I’m after is though. So the time has come to replace my struts on the S40 and I'm undecided on which struts IMO, KYB felt a tad bit softer than OEM. In the next few thousand miles I'm swapping my struts and shock all around with KYB. “KYB strut mounts optimize suspension performance by offering OE quality replacement components designed for each application. I Yes OEM is priced higher because any strut manufacture needs to build it to OEM specs. Plus, Monroe is running a promo, rebate going on until the end of October, buy 3 get 1 free. In this arena, two top-of-the-line products from the renowned Japanese manufacturer, KYB, are always front and center: the KYB Strut-Plus and the Excel-G struts. Monroe KYB Excel-G Gabriel Ultra Bilstein HD Koni Yellow Sport Adjustable; Price: $100-$150: $80: $75: $150-$200: Ride Quality: OEM. Oem Vs. In conjunction with the favorable Rockauto pricing, this works out to $105/side, shipped. and remember to please post the year/make/model of the vehicle you are working on. The "installed height" of the OEM springs on the KYB is MUCH shorter, like 3 inches less. KYB makes the OEM struts for your Sienna, is the largest shock mfr, and the OE supplier to most Japanese cars Quick struts are awesome because you get everything you need in one easy-to-install assembly . For instance, that the Excel-G struts themselves are good, but the Strut-Plus assemblies, not so much. e. KYB is the OE supplier to the Corolla, and your OEM Toyota struts were made by KYB. Car: 1999 Camry XLE Mileage: 235,250 I just wanted to share my experience and opinion. I have had aftermarket KYB for. Also Read: Differences Between FCS Struts And KYB Struts. However, TRQ struts offer a more robust and cost-effective option The good news is that now they have KYB quick struts for your 2002 Corolla. Best shock for the $/best price typicallyfound at Performance Suspension Technologies (PST) and typically about 1/3 lessthan Bilstein. I always find Monroe quick struts are priced similarly to nicer than OEM struts and springs (if Hi, I have a 2014 Edge SEL and it needs new shocks and struts. Be sure for the front upper strut mounts to use OEM -- the aftermarket strut mounts do not last long with the unique design for the Odyssey. KYB Strut. But for 95% of Honda owners, the OEM shocks and struts are best. They are a complete assembly for the front struts, including a new strut mount, spring, and associated hardware, so that you don't have to use a spring compressor. I have not found what I would consider to be a premium shock available for the RL. I have looked at endless Monroe vs. Reactions: STW, GT500KR, Bottom_Feeder and 2 others. Both KYB and Monroe make some mediocre shocks. No regrets other then not greasing the strut bearing. P. They come in two versions: the Excel-G and the Excel-GR2. Monroe Shocks and Struts: An In-depth Comparison Whether seeking sporty performance or everyday reliability within specific budget constraints, these three brands present viable options for customers across the spectrum. The Gabriel bare strut is $56, and the Gabriel quick strut is $76. However, it concerns me that KYB sells the same part #'s for the 2. The ACDelco Professional reboxed Gabriel bare strut is listed at $61 on Rock Auto. So far, so good. I'm wondering if I put Motorcraft shocks in the back, will it feel weird, or do you think it will be ok? I read that the KYB's are a little more stiff than OEM. OEM vs. Gabriel is fine but I always aim for Bilstein or another respected aftermarket brand if I plan on keeping the car. It's a 2005 EX. Joined May 30, 2010 Messages 17,693 Location North Carolina. But it may not have been out when you replaced yours; it is a fairly new addition to their lineup. Is the KYB meeting the OEM specs, yes, according to their marketing team production goals. Jump to Latest 26K views 14 replies 10 participants last post by van13330gg Jan 20, 2015. My previous Japanese cars were more reliable minus the shocks/struts wearing out faster. The AR world does the same thing and a lot of them that do absolutely suck balls. $50 a pair is small change for OEM parts. Jump to Latest 7. Any feedback regarding Complete Strut and Shock assemblies by Duralast, Monroe, and KYB would be appreciated. KYB vs. What makes KYB suspension products different from other brands? KYB shocks and struts are designed to meet or exceed OE quality standards, with a focus on durability and performance. famoustale Junior Member. Couldn't find the KYB Strut Plus anywhere and by the time I pieced together an OEM with all new bits and coils, it was just way too expensive, so I went with a pair of Monroe Quick Struts and threw them in today. I’ve used stock I’ve learned through my 5 month ownership of a Toyota that just because a part’s manufacturer brand is an OEM supplier doesn’t necessarily mean that that same supplier making a part under their name, spec’s it like how Toyota requests them to do i. Strut Mount. KYB is said to produce shocks for Toyota and Nissan (and maybe Honda too). Among the key players in this arena are Monroe, Gabriel, and KYB, all offering some of the best struts in the market. I've used kyb on saturn s and they hold up,( with moog mounts) just ride a bit stiff as saturn s cars have short suspension travel. Questions: Do you think it is best to spend the money and go for the OEM shocks from Nissan? or Save the cash and get the KYB Excel-G shocks? Any input would be greatly appreciated. if you go with KYB strut only be very careful with the spring assembly. Next Last. Reply reply More replies. My choice would be the KYB quick struts. Why OEM Shocks and Struts Are Usually The Best Choice . KYB struts usually are always top notch and sometimes better than OEM (but definitely keep the coil springs). The Critic I'd probably go with the Monroe, if OEM parts were not available. Their shocks and struts are generally considered a mid-range offering – pricier than bargain brands but not as expensive as premium offerings. If none of these brands are worth it I will just replace the Strut by itself with the KYB brand. SteveSRT8. Softer than OEM. Any opinions on OEM vs. Not the red one that can easily be found with a image search, but a blue tint part number sticker, and no other markings or packaging other than the box that would show it actually is Toyota OEM (even though the part number is ***** the Gas shocks (compared vs. send me an URL for OEM struts that are $120/piece, all my dealerships here charge $198+tax It depends on the VIN. I'd reuse the oem springs and buy the kyb struts . Much smoother and zero noises. KYB Excel-G Shocks & Struts are designed for the most important performance purpose: The KYB Excel-G is a nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube design that includes every quality component that our global OEM products include and it is the preferred choice by professional technicians. 151 posts · Joined 2014 Add to quote; Only show this user #1 · Apr 11, 2024. KYB produces shocks and struts for motorcycles, cars, trucks, buses, and agricultural equipment. Firmer than OEM. Carbon and manganese steel with natural rubber & Styrene Butadiene Blend to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. Duralast is a store brand for AutoZone, made by one of the big strut makers (maybe KYB, maybe Monroe, etc). KYB/Monroe/Other. Well, time to replace the front and rear struts, sway bar ends and tie rod ends. 5NA - aren't the spring rates and ride quality drastically different between the two models? Finally got around to putting in KYB struts and mounts with the original OEM springs. KYB pooped on the Gen3 Strut plus kits, so it would be completely bad advice to give to Gen3 folks. The front springs have to be compressed a lot though, so if it's your first time, I would start with the back struts, which only need compressing about an inch, and build a little confidence using the spring compressor. Home; Car Style. KYB is supposed to be making quick struts for these cars soon, but they're not out just yet. Now, if we’re talking TRQ vs KYB Gas-A-Just assembliesno shot. Phantomplatypus Discussion starter. The new OEM (Toyota) struts have restored the ride back to like new. From what I can tell, they are heavy duty struts. They can make a surprising difference. Both brands bring their unique features to the table and serve as major players in the market. blaisep, m. KYB’s Excel-G is a nitrogen-charged shock Performance-wise, here’s how I’d rank the TRQ vs Monroe vs OEM struts: So, the valid question is: why is this gap in performance? Monroe’s Quick-Strut assembly is on top due to several design improvements. NOTE: GM's quick strut offerings are not actual OE struts, but Ford and Honda DO offer quick struts that really are the actual OE parts. In addition, the aftermarket GR2/Excel-G strut is said to be 10-15% more firm than stock. Go. I just talked with a mechanic and he swore that the KYB pro brand of quick struts were close to OEM quality. I felt the same way on a Civic. 25K miles now and they suck big time, I Have to redo the fronts with OEM, food for thought. Edit: damn meatloaf, no need to delete, lol I'd take KYB over OEM or monroe anyday. 56 posts · Joined 2007 Add to quote; Only show this user #1 · Jul 14, 2010. KYB remains one of the most trusted OEM struts and shocks manufacturers and can be an excellent choice for purchasing your car’s replacement struts. Fanelle Discussion starter. May 2, 2019 KYB is the world’s leading provider in the automotive shocks market, and the KYB Excel-G is constructed on the same assembly line as KYB’s premier powertrain parts. In 2020 I had the OEM strut assemblies on my 2011 CRV with 85K miles replaced with KYB strut plus, including alignment. Make sure you replace the rubbery bits too, the seat springs, bumper stops, strut mounts, and boots if your struts have them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the pros and cons of Monroe, Gabriel, and Monroe Vs. KYB Shocks - In this video, we take an in-depth look at KYB Shocks, one of the most popular shock absorber brands in the market. 0XT and the 2. I purchsed OEM struts from Toyota Parts Deal, and they literally shipped me a KYB stickered shock absorbers. Even compared to the cheapest KYB Excel G struts, TRQ is 20-30% cheaper. There are no quick struts available for the OP's Forester (KYB's won't be out until next year). KYB Struts: Just doing a quick look, you can find OEM Toyota struts (most likely made by Tokico) for around $120 each. Vehicle specific, hand assembled in house damping valves: The Features: Reduces noise, prolongs strut life, protects against debris. They’re dirt cheap to buy, and the spring seats and strut mounts make a big difference in the ride, handling, and road noise. Jump to Latest 1. They are an OEM supplier to many auto manufacturers. (Re: KYB America not USA. Joined Feb 7, 2006 Messages 183 Location TEXAS. The top mounts on the Focus were incredibly shock absorbing compared to OEM ford and even compared to the Outback, and takes the edge off stuff like 1" steps in the pavement. GRUMPYDUDE2. The job went fairly smoothly. OEM struts. KYB’s Original Equipment for the Aftermarket strut designed to restore vehicle control. D. Both KYB and Monroe make some excellent shocks. If I go for the available KYB (2011, 2013, 2014), I know I have to change the stabilizer link. At 245K I balked at the price of OEM and did KYB's. The struts emulate some of KYB’s features and cut down on the more premium ones to save costs.