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Does 2012 suspension retrofit to 2011?

baltojeff

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After driving my 2011 4.6 for about 6 months now, I am getting a bit tired of the rather harsh ride. I know that many people have described 2012+ getting much better. Does anyone know if the coils/struts/shocks of the newer versions can be installed on my 2011?

I'm a huge Bilstein fan, but not thrilled with the price from KR. Don't have the original tires (at 72k now) so don't think it's them. Having had several cars I've done suspension modifications on, it basically feels like the springs are too hard and the shocks/struts are too soft. I guess the manufacturer equates that to a "sport" suspension. Not interested in racing and read varying reports on the Megan suspension option.

Anyone done a 2012 swap? Is it even possible? Thanks.
 
I would first replace the rear stabilizer bar with a 2012+ version. It will only cost about $125 plus installation (I would recommend a local suspension shop and not the dealer). There is good thread on this subject in this forum and includes details by someone who did the labor himself.

Next, make sure you have the most comfortable riding tires you can get. Bridgestone Serenity Plus seems to be a favorite, but there may be other good ones. The OEM Dunlop's were terrible in terms of ride comfort and stiffness.

If all else fails, you could try replacing struts/shocks and springs. I suspect the 2012 ones will fit on a 2011, but I don't know anyone who has tried it.
 
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What I am really trying to correct is, what feels like, spring "hoppiness" in the suspension. Like I have put lowered springs on a Civic. It feels harsher on highway bumps and, though the strut rate keeps the car from floating, it just feels like it is the spring rate that is the issue. I'm probably ok on tires for the rest of the year (maybe), but will look at that as a possibility.

I like the rear stabilizer bar option (I read that thread too). Maybe someone that went to Meghan's on a 2012 will have leftover parts! (wishful thinking) or could comment. I've certainly read enough that the 2012+ suspension was changed to be more compliant. Maybe it will work. We'll see.
 
I'm am going to change out my suspension to the 2012 R Spec. I did the rear sway bar a while back as you mentioned that you read that thread. I already have the R Spec springs. I just ordered the 2 front struts and 2 rear shocks today. Total cost with shipping was $612.68
 
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I'm am going to change out my suspension to the 2012 R Spec. I did the rear sway bar a while back as you mentioned that you read that thread. I already have the springs. I just ordered the 2 front struts and 2 rear shocks today.

What would you gain by changing out an '09 suspension with a '12 R-Spec suspension. Both ride like tanks on RR tracks.
 
What would you gain by changing out an '09 suspension with a '12 R-Spec suspension. Both ride like tanks on RR tracks.

Drive a 2009 and then a 2012 and then eat your own words:p I've driven both....have you?
 
ScottDK:

Did you get an entire new suspension, or are you planning on retaining the 2009 springs and just add the 2012 R-spec shocks/struts? In your response I read it both ways and wanted to be sure. :D

Though my mechanic is not seeing any leakage from the struts/shocks, it is possible they are just worn out at this point. Can anyone with a 2012 4.6 comment on the suspension and any comparison they note?

I know 2013+ only has the 5.0, so I don't know if that suspension would be applicable or not.
 
ScottDK:

Did you get an entire new suspension, or are you planning on retaining the 2009 springs and just add the 2012 R-spec shocks/struts? In your response I read it both ways and wanted to be sure. :D

Though my mechanic is not seeing any leakage from the struts/shocks, it is possible they are just worn out at this point. Can anyone with a 2012 4.6 comment on the suspension and any comparison they note?

I know 2013+ only has the 5.0, so I don't know if that suspension would be applicable or not.

To clarify, I will be installing 4 new springs (R Spec) and the two front struts and two rear shocks (R Spec).
 
Drive a 2009 and then a 2012 and then eat your own words:p I've driven both....have you?

Yes, I have. But, why so hostile...... you need to take a chill pill (or two).

Oh, and I've made plenty of mistakes in my life and had to take back what I said (believed), but, I have no experience in eating words....... perhaps you can provide instructions on how this is done.
 
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I have the same question - Due to the rather stiff/bouncy ride of my 2011 4.6, I also wonder about a suspension swap.

1. Does the 2013 R-Spec or otherwise, ride better? Substantially?

2. Is it possible to replace the entire suspension from the newer model to the 2011 4.6? Coils, Shocks/Struts, Sway Bars, etc?

I looked at the aftermarket coil overs, but I have no need to get involved with so many adjustments and settings (32 I believe).

I am the type which will pay for the entire swap if the ride will improve significantly. Otherwise, I will just keep driving as is and look out for major bumps :)
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To clarify, I will be installing 4 new springs (R Spec) and the two front struts and two rear shocks (R Spec).
I believe that Scott previously replaced the rear stabilizer bar on his 2009 with the 2012 version, which is the exact same part for all trim levels (including R-Spec) starting in 2012.
 
Bump.

Hoping anyone can comment on whether 2012+ suspension (Coils, Struts, shocks) can be installed on a 2011 4.6? Thx. :)
 
Yes they can. See Mark_888's post and what Scottdk has done
 
I'd love to hear about ScottDK's results once he is completed them. "Going to install" and "Have installed" are two different animals. :) I think Mark_888's recommendation for doing the sway bar is a good addition as well. I guess I'm just not adventurous enough to blaze the trail myself.
 
Bump - I'm installing the 2012 R Spec suspension tomorrow. I'm thinking it will take most of the day. I will report back on the changes when I get some drive time, so hopefully by this weekend.

Stay tuned....
 
Bump - I'm installing the 2012 R Spec suspension tomorrow. I'm thinking it will take most of the day. I will report back on the changes when I get some drive time, so hopefully by this weekend.

Stay tuned....

Did you get a chance to install the new suspension?

Any update on results?

Thanks! :)
 
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