Rusty coil springs

[Andy57]

I noticed the underside of my coil springs are rusty, I have 215,000kms on my 98 Malibu, I am getting a gut feeling I should change those springs. Can someone tell me if that is a danger sign, i.e. change them now!! Can I use springs off a donner if they are not rusty and I don't know the miles on the used springs?

[Johnny R]

The left front coil spring on my 99 Malibu 3.1 actually broke just after the warranty expired. I had both left and right replaced. There are not many comments about coil springs in this forum, so I don't think it's a common problem. Surface rust is not unusual for an exposed coil. I wouldn't install used springs myself, but whether you get used or new, do both sides.

[steve_o]

I had the passenger rear spring break on my '98 and had both rear replaced with new. Not sure what caused it, I don't remember what it cost but it wasn't too expensive and with better tools and time I would have done it myself.

['97ventureowner]

I'd change them out for new ones seeing as they aren't terribly expensive,( a quick look on rockauto.com shows the price range of $60 to $128 depending on manufacturer.) Knowing very little about the history of used coil springs would worry me as to safety, especially seeing other members having one of their springs break. Many times aftermarket replacements are of better quality and last longer, especially in your location o Canada where they use salt and other de-icing compounds on the roads in the winter that can shorten the life of many components of your vehicle.

[Andy57]

Thanks guys for the great advice, I am going to buy new after market ones, Not to mention here in o Canada our roads are so rough this time of year with frost/ice heave/pot holes, our coil springs really get a good work out. Thanks again, and I will change both sides.