Anybody know the expected lifetime of stock struts and springs for a GLE? Also, how can you tell when you struts/springs are worn out? I bought the car used, so I don't know what the ride is supposed to feel like...

 

springs usually out last the car. struts on the other hand could go bad in a little as 40,000 miles.....but they could last over 100,000 too. Check the strut for leaks and test the compression and rebound. Push on the car and it should move down kinda firm and come back up with no bounce. Blown struts make the car bounce like the harlem globe trotters ball.

 

Depends on the streets too. Like he said, it could be 40,000 to 100,000 or maybe even 20,000. Problem is without seeing the struts leaking or bouncing its hard to tell when struts blow. They usually go gradually and you dont really notice it.

 

similar ?, but for a SE suspension. '98 w/ close to 106K, everything original suspension-wise, would I also have to consider replacing the shocks/struts given my car's age & mileage?

Also since the SE has a sportier feel to it and w/ some firmer components, wouldn't that susp. last a little longer than a GLE/GXE would or would it wear the same?

 

It really depends on where you live, how you drive, and where you drive. In NYC its not uncommon to see a set of OEM struts last only 40,000 miles, but if you live in a rural aera with very well paved roads and drive lots of highway; then your struts should still be strong at 100,000 miles.