Our 04 Cooper just had it's third visit to the dealor for it's second oil service and the service advisor mentioned to me that the passenger side front shock/strut was bent and needed to be replaced along with it's mount. The vehical is my wife's and I had no knowledge of poor alignment or of it even hitting a pot hole or something (which she doesn't admit too). When I got the vehical home I turned the wheel to full lock so I could look up in there and see what's happened. While I dont see anything bent or broken, I see that the shock/strut is or was leaking so deffinatly could be replaced.

The dealor quoted me $500 and change to replace it which of course is on the high side. I am more then capable of doing the work my self, but I need help sourceing a OEM replacement or cheap after market pair. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

i would keep an eye open in the market place forum.

ive seen a couple of stock dampers on sale by other members for real cheap.