When it’s time to replace the front struts on your vehicle, you’ll face the choice between building a strut setup or using the easy-to-install quick strut options. But which one is best?

Quick struts come fully assembled from the factory with mounts, springs, bump stops, and all hardware needed for a drop install. This saves you from having to compress the spring which can be a scary and dangerous job if done improperly

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The flaw to this is most companies use a “one size fits all” spring that typically gives the diesel models a slightly different ride vs the OE spring. The strut quality is also on the lower end side. They are a great option for a quick fix on a daily driver but not the best option for a spirited driver. 

Assembling your own strut will require the use of a spring compressor and the purchase of all the hardware separately, which adds to both the labor and parts costs of the job. The benefit, however, is the ability to select a strut-and-spring combo tailored to your specific needs. If you’re looking for a stiffer ride or a drastic change in ride height, this is likely the best option.

To figure out which one is best for you, you will need to ask yourself a few questions: 

Are you looking for an upgrade to the vehicle’s ride or handling? 

Our best-performance struts, such as the Bilstein HDs and Koni Special Actives, are only available as bare struts and must be assembled before installation. These are our top choice for achieving the best performance from your vehicle’s suspension. Meanwhile, quick struts perform similarly to the factory suspension.

Would you like to change the vehicle’s ride height? 

Quick struts come with a ‘one-size-fits-all’ spring, while assembling your own strut allows you to choose between stock-height springs, lowering springs, or lift springs. Many TDI owners prefer a higher ride height, which can be achieved with lift springs: something that cannot be accomplished with a quick strut.

Are you tired of your noisy or broken suspension and just want your vehicle back on the road as cheap as possible? 

Quick struts are 100% the more affordable option. They tend to be cheaper than performance struts and have the added benefit of not requiring multiple specialty tools, such as a spring compressor or pass-through socket for the top nut. Additionally, quick struts come preassembled, saving on labor, tools, and hardware.

So which one is best for you?

If the vehicle is a daily driver and you’re not looking for performance benefits, but rather the most affordable option, a quick strut setup would be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a stiffer ride, a lower or higher ride height, or simply want to get the best ride and handling out of your vehicle, assembling your own strut is the way to go! There is no single option that’s best for everyone; you’ll need to consider what you want to achieve and choose the option that best meets your needs.