I have a 2007 Honda Fit with just a tick under 150K miles. It's in really good shape, and I'm wanting to replace the front and rear shocks and struts. I went to Rock Auto and added left and right front KYB struts and rear shocks. In the cart, Rock Auto added notes recommending I buy other stuff like strut mounts and strut bellows. I'm clueless. I don't want to buy anything I don't need, and I want to make sure my mechanic has all the parts to get the job done. I don't want to waste his time waiting on parts. Is there just a complete kit I can order that has everything I need?

 

When replacing front struts, it is usually a good idea to replace the mounts and bearing. Changing struts is not an easy job without a proper spring press so it’s more envolved than with quick struts just so you know.

the aftermarket strut mounts are good but the aftermarket bellows fit like poo as far as I could see. It’s gonna be a job with tie wraps if you go aftermarket bellows. I bought Honda bellows a long time ago and they are crazy expensive, like 30$ a bellow. I would inspect the bellows and replace if torn. Better replace that than getting crap strut and having to do a pretty involved repair less than two years later.

PS. make sure you support the knuckle because if the cv joint comes out of its socket, you will be in a world of pain. They are apparently pretty hard to get back in unless you remove the boot. Removing the cv boot you will need to replace the clamp band etc etc

 

So I just went to have a look out of curiosity (yes my Saturday is fun). I couldn't find the whole assembly on sale locally (#3/4) here. Just the struts 5/6. As MTLian says, this means disassembling everything and then putting it back together with the same parts. I did find a kit with the mount, bearing and some nuts or washers is like $10 so imo definitely worth replacing at the same time.