Front end struts/shocks Options

[hellfire911]

Hi peeps

A new owner of a used 2013 Mazdaspeed here. Seeking some advice regarding front end suspension options specifically shock assembly.

I noticed that front passenger side strut is leaking oil. So I am planning to replace both front end shock assemblies. Not keen on buying Koni, Billstein unless absolutely necessary as they are more on the expensive side for me. Any recommendations from people who have used aftermarket completely assembled shocks like KYB, Monroe etc. Any help would be appreciated

Car is completely stock and want to keep it this way. Currently at around 80k miles.

[TimWiki]

I would consider any of the affordable online retailers for OEM parts:
Left Front Part #: BBN5-34-900A
Right Front Part #: BBN5-34-700A

If I may also recommend you inspect your strut mounts, spring insulators, and bump stops.

While I have not yet done this myself, Id like to bring up: there is decent bit of info out there regarding the length of the OEM front bump stops. They are very firm and tall, significantly limiting the movement of the front damper. There are affordable aftermarket bump stops that will provide additional front travel with a potentially more progressive bump stop engagement.

[hellfire911]

Thanks TimWiki. I am interested in options for any complete shock assemblies(strut+mount+spring etc). Are there any good options available? Or my best bet is to just buy each part separately and assemble it?

[TimWiki]

Im not aware of any pre-assembled oem-like parts. There may be a shop that will assemble the components for you and you can just pick them up for diy install?

[Mr. Felt]

Check out Rock Auto they have economic to high end struts.

[dirttraxx]

Definitely DON'T BUY FROM ROCK AUTO (Unless you do a lot of research). I've already been stung multiple times trying to get MS3 parts from them, because they often think they're interchangeable with MZ3 parts. I'm just now going through a very similar situation. Hopefully this information isn't too late.

Step One: Call your local Mazda parts department. Usually for the Mazdaspeeeds they ask for the last eight digits of your VIN to look up vehicle specific parts. I just did this today with my 07 MS3 and they gave me the following info:
R Strut: B37F34700B ~$135
L Strut: B37F34900B ~$135

Step Two: Look at websites like EdgeAutoSports, TunerSports, and TireRack (i'm sure there's more too). My car already had Koni Yellows when I bought it, and apparently they're pretty popular as a stock replacement. At tire rack they only cost ~$50 more than the stock struts. I bought two from TireRack and paid another $40 for next day FedEx shipping since UPS is closed over new years

Step 3: While you're doing this repair, consider replacing the strut bearing, bump stop, and dust boot. Don't bite of more than you can chew, but also don't make yourself regret not having replaced worn out components in hard to reach places while you had everything apart. Consider putting on new control arms if the bushings are worn out (Don't try to replace just the bushings and ball joints without replacing the arm, total PITA and not worth the time or the few dollars saved.) Pulling wheels off is always a good excuse to check brake pad and rotor wear, and replace them if necessary.

Step 4: If you are doing this yourself, get the proper tools ready! If you have a used MS3 at this point, it probably has seen quite a lot of use. You'll need a torch, penetrating lube, breaker bar, and "pickle fork" at minimum. An extra set of hands and an impact gun are also helpful.

Hope that helps.