If you've lowered your Prius, then this thread is for you...

In my case I would have also replaced the shocks but there are no aftermarket shocks available for the Gen III Prius unless you want to go coil over and I did not want to go that direction due to possible warranty issues in the future as well as cost $900 -$1100 vs $185 for springs. I did how ever make sure that the dealer had replacement shocks in stock in case I needed them during the install and after removing my struts and springs they were not leaking and felt as if they were functioning so I did not replace them.

 

Camber kits are not needed. I am in spec.

 

I would agree that aftermarket springs can shorten the life of the shock. I believe, however, it is going to be a function of the spring rates and total drop. I'm not sure the spring rates on these, but the drop is pretty minimal and I have to believe the rates aren't too high. Given this, I can't imagine a significant drop in shock life.

In comparison, I have H&R race springs (2"+ drop, ~Front- 460 Rear-350) on my Integra. These are very aggressive, and I started with Tokico replacement shocks but ended up switching to Koni adjustables later as the Tokico's couldn't handle the race springs. Others have run sports and other milder springs on Tokico's or shocks without premature wear to my knowledge. To your point, in this case, I regretted not doing it right the first time and wish I had opted for a ground control/koni combo. Of course, unlike the Prius, I had a ton of options available to me even 12 years ago.

I am curious about the camber kit though and posted a question a few posts back. I doubt there are issues with the rear camber given the torsion beam in back. Anyone have input on the front? How far out of spec? Is camber adjustable on the Prius or do you need a kit?

 

Thanks. Anyone know if this is still the case with the Teins?

 

Just be sure to do a front and back alignment when you get your springs installed that will help with camber numbers a bit.

And yes it is correct there aren't any aftermarket shocks. Not sure why someone would post a lecture about shocks.... without knowing the fundamentals what is available for this car.

 

I think for many, the reasons are in-front economical vs down-the-road economical. Plus, the TRD springs on the plus package use stock shocks. I myself, will be going with Tein Street Advance coilovers, which will take some time and savings as I totally understand and agree with you statement. However, I don't think everyone has the same luxuries that some others do.

Do you know of a camber kit for our cars? Please, do share if you do. I was worrying that may be an issue once I get the coil-overs. Thanks in advance!

 

To my knowledge the only available camber kit is this:

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.com/viewitem?itemId=110929681442&index=1&nav=SEARCH&nid=55843830128

 

A lot people on PC seem to think that the TRD springs don't drop enough but I think think they look pretty good in that pic.

 

If that's the case then why doesn't Toyota include different shocks with their PLUS kit?

 

I thought the 5 had stiffer valved struts and thats it? w/ a rear swaybar as well

 

First I'm not planning to lower the Prius so I don't have the exact specs but:

1. The lower kit may not be THAT low
2. By the time you figure it out and the shocks are blown, it is past warranty
3. Most people can't tell the difference
4. The shocks may be the same but the valving may have kept it within specs

The problem is this: Something that is meant for everything is good at nothing. That rule always applies.

 

That's cheap for $120 including alignment!!! Is there any chance you were at 170 freeway yesterday?

 

Which dealer for 120? w/ alignment?

 

x2 I got quoted at $500 from 1 dealer (springs, sway bar, alignment) and $900 by another!! (both dealers in orange county)

 

Cabe Toyota of Long Beach. I forgot to mention they gave us a '12 Corolla rental for free. I bought my Prius from them and got a premium discount card for service/parts. We had a little situation with the sales manager 3 weeks ago when we were shopping for a Prius C 2 or 3 for my girlfriend. The situation escalated and ultimately resulted in us buying a fully loaded C 4 at another dealership. Dan D., the ops manager wanted to regain our trust, reached out and hooked it up. Pretty sure the $120 is a special rate for our situation, but it doesn't hurt to ask for a quote. You can ask for Rico, service manager and tell him you were referred by Steve and see if that helps (the gray Prius he worked on during the morning of 8/4/12).



170, isn't that the NoHo freeway? I wasn't on it. But if you spot a winter gray '12 with a gold rear Cal Poly Pomona alumni license plate frame and front Nokya projector fog lights, throw a peace sign and I'll throw one back.

I don't subscribe to that, especially since Toyota sell PLUS springs without any other accessories (i.e. upgrade shocks). They're in the business to make money, not lose money through class action lawsuits for knowingly sell accessories that'd f*ck up your suspension and cost hundreds of dollars in repair - warranty or no warranty. If you're going for the hellaflush type stance, then no doubt you'll need camber kits and shocks. I don't see upgraded shocks for -1.1" front and -1.3" rear as a necessity.

 

it's funny... i really thought about this one too!

 

hahaha...same here

 

Not sure I guess. All their web site says is:

The PLUS Performance Package offers the same ground effects kit, wheels and tires as the PLUS Appearance Package, and adds track-tested lowering springs, a rear sway bar, limited-edition carpet floor mats and unique exterior badging.