My strut boots are all cracked and worn at 90K. Do I need to replace them? What can happen if I don't?
(I am not planning on replacing suspension; I'm too old for that crap)

 

I wouldnt spend the the time, effort and money to put new boots on struts that old. You would be surprised how much better you car would ride if you got some Tokico Blues and KYB boots to use with your stock springs...

...just a thought.

 

I know. Believe me, there is nothing I would like more than to mod my Max and enjoy driving my car. If it was 5 speed that is. I searched for more than 6 months and couldn't find a 5 speed so I just bought an auto. And, IMHO, there is no such thing as spirited driving an automatic. I've always had 5 speed cars before and getting an auto really killed the joy of driving such a powerful car. Sure, I can smoke a lot of cars with it, but it's just not the same... Now, all I do is maintenance; no mods at all. I may get new wheels just for looks, but that's it.
Nevertheless, thanks for your suggestion. I'll consider it if I ever change my mind.
So, you think I should leave the boots as they are?

 

Yes, leave the boots. Changing the boots is just as much work as changing the struts.

I wouldnt consider new struts a "mod" if your OEM units have 90k on them. They are shot. Struts wear out slowly, so you don't know how bad they were until you replace them. A set of blues would give a steadier ride, better tracking on the freeway with less buffetting from wind and large trucks. There would be no increase in harshness.

 

Hmmm...
OK, makes sense when you put it that way....
Is there a write up somewhere on how to replace struts/shocks/springs? Is it a DIY? PITA? Couldn't find anything in the FAQs.