Symptoms
Leaking or rusty X-REAS shocks, a floaty or wallowy ride, a quote for four OEM units that's more than the truck feels worth.
The fix, step by step
- Lift the truck so all four shocks are fully extended, then disconnect the X-REAS lines at the junctions about a foot from each shock — Toyota-4Runner.org members note there are built-in valves, but the system is pressurised, so follow the factory manual or expect a spray of hydraulic fluid.
- Drain the system and tie off the hose ends, then remove the old front strut assemblies and rear shocks and fit conventional units with new front mounts.
- Leaving the brackets and tubing in place does no harm.
Tools & part numbers
- Spring compressor (fronts)
- metric sockets
- drain pan
- Bilstein 5100 front 24-324359
- rear 33-313146
- KYB SM5640 front mounts
Where to buy the parts
Bilstein B8 5100 set + KYB front mounts, 2002–09 4Runner with X-REASShockWarehouse ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Toyota 4Runner 4th Gen parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.