Acura CL Suspension Strut Replacement Guide (1997-2003)
Restore your CL's smooth ride and sharp handling by choosing the right replacement struts.
- First, confirm your CL's generation (1997-1999 or 2001-2003) as parts are not interchangeable.
- Complete strut assemblies (FCS, PRT) are the safest and easiest option for DIY replacement.
- For an OEM-quality ride, KYB and Monroe are highly recommended brands.
- Be prepared for the lower fork bolt to be seized, especially on 2001-2003 models; this is the most common installation problem.
Is Your Acura CL a First or Second Generation?
Before buying suspension parts, you must know your vehicle's generation. The 1997-2003 Acura CL was built in two different series, and parts are not interchangeable. There was also no 2000 model year for the CL.
- First Generation (1997-1999): Based on the 1994-1997 Honda Accord platform. Many suspension parts can be cross-referenced with the Accord from that era.
- Second Generation (2001-2003): Based on the Acura TL / Honda Accord platform of the time. The sporty Type-S models featured a firmer suspension from the factory for better handling.
Signs Your Acura CL Struts Are Failing
Worn struts make your car less safe and uncomfortable to drive. Look for these common symptoms:
🎬 Watch: 5 ways to tell if your shocks are bad- Bouncy, Floating Ride: The most classic sign. Your car continues to bounce multiple times after hitting a bump instead of settling down immediately. You can test this by pushing down hard on one corner of the car; if it bounces more than once, the strut is likely worn.
- Noise Over Bumps: Listen for clunking, knocking, or rattling sounds from the suspension when driving over uneven roads. This can be caused by the strut bottoming out or by worn strut mounts.
- Nose-Diving and Body Roll: If the front of your CL dips sharply when you brake, or if the car leans and sways excessively during turns, your struts are no longer controlling the weight transfer of the vehicle properly.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Look for scalloped or "cupped" patterns on your tires. This happens when the tire bounces off the road surface, which is a direct result of failing struts.
- Visible Fluid Leaks: A strut is filled with hydraulic fluid. If you see oily or wet residue on the body of the strut, it's leaking and needs to be replaced immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut for Your CL
Original Acura struts were good quality, but after two decades, even the best parts wear out. Aftermarket options offer excellent value and a chance to restore or even upgrade your ride quality.
Good: Economy Brands (FCS, PRT)
These brands specialize in "complete strut assemblies" or "quick struts." This means the strut, coil spring, and top mount come as one ready-to-install unit. This is the safest and easiest option for a DIY mechanic, as you don't need to use a dangerous spring compressor. While they may offer a slightly softer ride than the original, they are a very affordable way to make a high-mileage CL feel much better.
Better: OEM-Style Replacement (Monroe, KYB Excel-G)
Brands like Monroe and KYB are well-respected in the aftermarket and often supply parts to vehicle manufacturers. The KYB Excel-G (formerly GR-2) is designed to restore the vehicle's original handling and ride characteristics. If you want your CL to feel like it did when it was new, these are excellent choices. They are available as bare struts (requiring you to reuse your old springs) or sometimes in complete assemblies.
Best: Performance Upgrade (KYB, Koni)
For owners of the Type-S, or those who want a firmer, more controlled ride, a high-quality strut from KYB can be a noticeable upgrade. Since the Type-S had a firmer suspension from the factory, a standard KYB strut can help restore that sporty feel. For enthusiasts seeking significant handling improvements, adjustable shocks or full coilover systems are also available, but these are more specialized and costly.
Estimated Costs for Strut Replacement
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Corner) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Strut (Bare) | $40 - $110 |
| New Aftermarket Complete Assembly | $75 - $170 |
| New OEM Strut (Bare) | $160 - $230+ |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $300 per corner |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a bare strut or a complete strut assembly?
For most DIYers, a complete strut assembly is the better choice. It's much safer because you don't have to compress the coil spring, and it's faster to install. It also replaces the spring and mount, which are also likely worn. A bare strut is cheaper but requires special tools and more labor.
Do I have to replace struts in pairs?
Yes, absolutely. Always replace struts in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even handling and stability. Replacing only one side can make the car unpredictable and unsafe to drive.
Will I need a wheel alignment after replacing my struts?
Yes. Replacing struts will affect your vehicle's alignment angles. You must get a professional wheel alignment after the job is done to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure the vehicle tracks straight.
Is there a recall on my Acura CL suspension?
No, there are no specific recalls for the struts on the 1997-2003 Acura CL. There was a significant safety recall for the front lower ball joints on 1997 models, which can cause similar clunking noises. It is wise to inspect the ball joints when working on the suspension. 🎬 Watch this complete suspension and strut replacement walkthrough Most other recalls for this car relate to airbags.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
The 1997-2003 Acura CL uses a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. Part numbers are specific to generation (1997-99 vs 2001-03), front/rear position, and sometimes engine type. The sport-oriented Type-S model (2001-03) used firmer struts and springs from the factory.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Acura CL:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Acura CL a First or Second Generation?
- Signs Your Acura CL Struts Are Failing
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut for Your CL
- Good: Economy Brands (FCS, PRT)
- Better: OEM-Style Replacement (Monroe, KYB Excel-G)
- Best: Performance Upgrade (KYB, Koni)
- Estimated Costs for Strut Replacement
- Frequently Asked Questions
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