In December, 2022, had all shocks and other suspension bits replaced on my 2007 at the dealer. In late February, 2024, we noticed fluid leaking from the rear driver's wheel area. Dealer says it's the shock, which they will replace under warranty, but there are no shocks in stock anywhere. Have now been without a vehicle for nearly two weeks, and they're telling me it could be April 5 before they get a Ford part (after telling me it would be done by today). They could put a non-Ford part in it now to get it done faster, but they won't do under the warranty so I'd have to pay for it.

Question: Is it worth waiting for a Ford part for this? The shocks in it now are Ford parts.

Money isn't the issue here, I just don't want to put something in the vehicle that isn't optimal. But I am tired of my vehicle being unavailable, and having it stuck at the dealer for almost another month is just not great for so many reasons.

 

I wouldn't mix brands. You want equal action of bound and rebound. Get the proper Ford replacement.

 

Alternatively you could buy a pair of Bilstein B6 rear shocks from rockauto.com, have them fitted by an independent garage, and stuff the warranty if Ford can't produce the parts.

 

Thanks, I suspected that would be the way to go, and now I've come to realize that both rear shocks should be replaced, not just the one. That will be a fun conversation with the dealer on Monday!

I could, but I have no idea where to take it at this point. It's been dealer maintained since I bought it.

 

Ask the dealer if they will install aftermarket shocks. There is no reason for them not to do it. They may not do it under warranty but at least you will have your car fixed in a timely manner if money is no object. I'm surprised the original shocks are still covered unless you have some kind of extended warranty.

 

They're not the original shocks; they were replaced in December, 2022, so they're still under the 2 year warranty for the parts and labor. I know they will install aftermarket shocks, though they'll charge me for that instead of doing the repair under the warranty terms. I actually ordered the right part (two of them, since apparently shocks should be replaced in pairs) and I'll see what they say about doing the labor free, since I've paid for the parts. Seems only fair, but I doubt they'll go for that!

 

Never know until you ask. I usually find a dealer I like and can trust and buy my cars from them. I also get to know the service manager and make a point of stopping by and saying hi to my salesman and service advisor from time to time. I find they can be very accommodating if at all possible.