Mag-ride on the way out? Coilovers now?

[Bernard1414]

Just picked up a 2016 TTS w/64k on it. It's obvious the previous took great care of the car and this went into consideration when purchasing. However, as my reference point of what the car feels like is @ 64k with 20 inch wheels on summer tires, not totally sure what proper functioning suspension feels like, versus suspension that might be on it's last life.

When considering changing the suspension, looks like there are a few options.

First would be to replace with OEM mag ride shocks. Expensive but I'd retain OEM ride and damping control.

Second would be non-electronic coilovers. I see that Bilstein have a kit which is pretty affordable, but I'd lose the electronic control. What's the success rate of running non mag ride coilovers with a magride delete kit? What other shocks/struts/coilovers are out there for the MK3 TTS?

Third would be a coilover with magride control. I am only seeing KW with this option and they are roughly the same price as OEM parts ($2400).


What are your thoughts on how to best approach this? Not looking for a track setup, this car is used for Turo and the occasional weekend cruise. Any and all input is welcome and appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[kevin#34]

I believe there isn't a definitive answer, it depends a lot from how/where the car is driven…
the mag-ride biggest benefit for me is the possibility to soften a bit the suspensions when the tarmac is far from perfect (majority of my drives), especially considering I'am with '20 wheels… but should i drive mainly on track or on very good roads, probably I would go for a fixed set...
about KW coilovers they are electronically controlled via remote control or app only, there is no integration with the MMI…
last, the mag-ride shocks can be totally rebuild, here in Europe we have some specialists (don't know situation there in US), see for example
https://nagengast.pl/en/regeneration...ock-absorbers/

then, considering all the above, my vote goes for the OEM units

[Thumper3]

I believe there isn't a definitive answer, it depends a lot from how/where the car is driven…
the mag-ride biggest benefit for me is the possibility to soften a bit the suspensions when the tarmac is far from perfect (majority of my drives), especially considering I'am with '20 wheels…

So true, I am on 19s and have always just left it in Dynamic (I actually wanted the fixed when I ordered but wasn't going to pay for ceramic brakes that were the only way to get it, would bankrupt me at the track). Then a few months back visited family for Tday and went through a downtown with cobblestones........told the wife it was a perfect time to test the Comfort ability and it definitely made a difference. Drove 3 blocks in Dynamic and then switched to Comfort, instant difference.

If you are not planning to do any real track duty and aren't afflicted with the "slam it till it scraps" problem I'd maintain the OEM units and function.

As to the proper function you can visually inspect the dampers for leaking. Generally if the ride is harsh it's working lol, when they wear out you'll get softer feel and when really bad the "chatter" as the wheel hops. Check the tires for odd wear in the center, low spots called cupping. Unless it was thrashed though wouldn't expect it to need dampers at 64k.

[8STTRS]

KW's are pretty damn compliant, all things withstanding. If it were me and my money, I'd just get the KW's and move on. The factory magnetic ride on these cars is far, far cry from what GM offers on their performance models. It's almost shocking how different they are. Which is why I'd say that if the stock magride shocks are blown, get some aftermarket coil overs like KW's that are cheap and still compliant.

[kevin#34]

what about increasing the MR performance by installing the APR suspensions controller or the like?

[Bernard1414]

what about increasing the MR performance by installing the APR suspensions controller or the like?

I feel like going with an APR suspension controller opens a can of worms that I am not ready to get into. Thanks for the suggestion though, much appreciated.

I think at this point, I'll just drive the car till the shocks need replacing. I had them checked by a local VWAG shop and they said they look good, no leaks and all components are in working order. When it comes time to change em, I'll probably go RacingLine or Bilstein. KW is nice, but out of budget for me.