2003 Honda CRV Struts

CKSTAUFFER

MEMBER
2003 HONDA CRV
6 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
50,000 MILES

My Honda was hit recently causing damage to the left front tire and strut. The repair shop strongly recommended that we replace both front tires and both struts siting that it is generally accepted that these items are replaced in pairs. The insurance company of the guy who hit us only paid for one strut and one tire, saying that only one of each was damaged. I am trying to get them to pay for both, as was recommended to me.

Is it necessary or a safety issue to replace them in pairs? I do have recourse by an appeal, but I'd have to have facts to back this up.

Thanks!

5 Replies

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,394 POSTS

I can see this issue from both sides. Yes, the struts should be replaced in pairs. Only changing one could turn into a handling issue when driving. But, a lot of insurance companies, nowadays, will only repair or replace what's damaged. I used to work with customers who had extended warranty on their vehicle drivelines. If they blew the engine up due to overheat or lack of oil, they wouldn't pay for a new engine or a complete rebuild on the old one. All they wanted to pay for was the parts that were actually damaged. That included bearings, seals, valves, nothing, yet, they still wanted me to warranty the engine for 1 year or 10K miles. Anyway, If you whine and cry loud enough, you, ll get your struts. They're just waiting for you to give up and quit. The one thing they may bring up is the car only has 50K on. Thats not a lot of miles on a modern strut.
One thing you may want to use as leverage is a note from your mechanic stateing that he can't or won't change only 1 strut due to a safety issue. If something were to happen, the liability would come back on him, which it would. Hope this helps.

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Wednesday, March 17th, 2021 AT 12:47 PM

CKSTAUFFER

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hi James,

Thank you for your prompt reply. I will take your advice and ask the mechanic to write his reasoning as to why the insurance company should pay for the other strut and tire.

I was wondering if you wouldn't mind replying with just the reasoning, so I can include your response with my appeal letter?
You stated struts should be replaced in pairs, but maybe could you elaborate as to why? Also, the mechanic told me the front tires should be replaced together. Again, why is this safer?
I'd really appreciate your help. I'm frustrated w/the insurance company as there is no question that their insured is at fault (hit and run to my parked car) and was caught, arrested and admitted guilt. They aren't disputing fault, just don't want me to have a car that's in the condition it was before this guy hit it.

FYI, they promptly paid for what they deemed necessary. I paid the difference.

Thank you!
Cheryl

I will respond in a new post. Please keep in mind, even though we are on your side, we have to remain impartial. I will word my responce as a shop owner on your behalf.

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Wednesday, March 17th, 2021 AT 12:47 PM

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,394 POSTS

On your question of strut replacement. It is common procedure through out the industry to replace strut assenblies and front drive tires as a pair. Installing one new strut and one new driving tire with a used assembly on the opposite side can cause significant handling problems as well as a possible safety issue. I wouldn't let the vehicle leave the shop without a signed statement from the vehicle's registered owner stating the possible hazzards and our exclusion from any liability due to possible repercutions from the customer request service/work performed. I wouldn't be trying to make a few extra bucks, I would just be covering my tail. Hope this helps. Anything else, you know where to find us.

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Wednesday, March 17th, 2021 AT 12:47 PM

CKSTAUFFER