Suspension question
 

Hey guys, I'm new here and have a question about fixing the suspension on my 1999 4-door Jetta 3 GL. It has the old body style and the 2L 8V engine.

Problem: I added some weight in the trunk of my car and now the rear end sags too much and the C-clamp on the exhaust rattles on the cover for the rear axle (very annoying!). There is no way to turn the C-clamp in order to make it fit better. I need to get the rear arse up.

I have spoken to many people on this, but keep getting different suggestions. The more ideas and info, the better decision I can make in the end.

Suggestion 1: replace the suspension with OEM since the car is old and new stuff will probably fix the problem. (I'm not buying this one since it seems like a temporary bandaide that will eventually have the same issue again.)

Suggestion 2: replace the stock coils with truck coils for a stiffer and higher suspension. (downside is it will ride like a truck. not too bad though and might be willing to endure with it. After all, it is better that a freaking rattle that I can hear over my music and engine running with the windows shut!)

Suggestion 3: replace the OEM struts with either a bagged suspension or air shocks. (I think this is the best option, but will be expensive. I also cannot find anyone that makes air shocks, which would be cheaper than bags, for my car)

Sugsestion 4: remove the weight in the trunk. (hahahaha! yeah riiiiiiiight! Definitely not happening :tongue: )

That's all the information that I have had so far. Please provide any input you have on this issue :D

a stock a3 jetta has pretty high coils from the factory..
i say install some new oem or oem with extra coils they use in combinating with a hitch

So you think that the suspension is just old and the springs have sagged with age? A couple people that I have spoke to tend to agree with you so maybe I will just change out the springs for a stiffer, and maybe even taller model. Unless anyone else thinks that is the wrong way to go??

I'd say the springs has sagged over the years as well. SPrings are a wear item, even though it takes a whole lot longer for them to wear out than, say, shock absorbers.

yup, i don't even think you need stiffer ones, just new

OK that sounds good. Now I just need to hound my buddy for his spring compressor, lol.

Thanks a bunch guys!