I have a 99' Ford Escort ZX2 with ~250,000 miles, and it needs the struts replaced. I was on Rockauto checking out struts when I realized that they all have different lengths. How do I know which length is correct for my vehicle? And am I safe to buy cheap? Does brand matter?
And am I safe to buy cheap?
No, with struts, you get what you pay for. Some struts may ride worse brand new vs the original struts after 26 years. Everyone here to my knowledge prefers KYB struts if you go aftermarket. I have them on a '79 Pontiac Catalina and I love them.
I was on Rockauto checking out struts when I realized that they all have different lengths.
It should have a sub-model if they are different enough. If not, go to AutoZone's website and select your specific car as a ZX2 and search for struts. That will bring up strut lengths specific for your car and you can use that as a reference when ordering new struts.
@justin-shepherd Thank you! They didn't have the front assembly on their website, but I called my local store and they told me the proper length (18.5'' extended and 12'' compressed for anyone who sees this in the future).