Ever heard of ST Suspension shocks?

[Norskie]

Picked up a 2015 SQ5, lowered with what appear to be KW V1's up front and ST Suspension shocks in the rear. I don't see an application for my SQ5 on ST Suspension's websites.

The car rides awesome but there is a rattle from the rear suspension. Tomorrow I'm pulling the shocks off, and if the topnuts are solid I'm probably going to get a set of B8's to replace them.

[djn876]

ST is a division of KW if I remember, and the shocks are typically the same for a Q5 and SQ5 but again it's been a little while since I've looked at that stuff. ST is basically made with some less expensive materials and do better in climates without salt but are otherwise a reasonably good choice.

Is check your endlinks and things before jumping right to the struts if things are making noise, but if you went with the b8/H&R combo, you won't be disappointed either.

[Norskie]

Good idea on the end links, but those are tight. Bummer .. they are cheap and easy to replace.

I pulled the shock and the top nut is tight, but there is a click inside whenever it changes direction (turn up your sound):



I'll see if I can get replacement KW's or I'll just pick up a set of B8's.

[Norskie]

ST is a division of KW if I remember, and the shocks are typically the same for a Q5 and SQ5 but again it's been a little while since I've looked at that stuff. ST is basically made with some less expensive materials and do better in climates without salt but are otherwise a reasonably good choice.

Is check your endlinks and things before jumping right to the struts if things are making noise, but if you went with the b8/H&R combo, you won't be disappointed either.

Yes you're 100% correct regarding KW using ST Suspension, I found the model number printed on the shock to match what's in KW's installation directions. Bilsteins are on the way, I'm hoping this resolves the rattle.

[Norskie]

Out with the ST shocks, in the B8's. Rattle is gone. Yay!

Increased the rear perches to the max allowed by KW (for ground clearance and looks) and that increases spring preload, which increases the stiffness of the ride.

While I very much appreciate some aspects of the lowering (lower COG) and increased control spring/damping rates (controlling body movement), I'm not sure I like it this lowered or stiff.