MatraSport Forum

When I have just 4 people in the car the rear occasionaly bottoms out when driving over small bumps. I am not sure if I need to replace the dampers or the springs? The damper replacement looks to be a very simple job, just like a motorbike with 1 nut top and bottom. I need to resolve this issue very quickly as I will be using it to tour around Europe from next Saturday. Also can someone recommend a place to purchase what I need, someone who can get the part to me in the UK quickly? Thanks In Advance. Mark

The Espace is well known for broken rear springs.
I have had to replace the rear springs on every one I have owned (3).
Most motor factors can supply, an easy DIY job.
George.

Hi Mark and welcome to the forum!

I have never heard of broken rear spring as a problem on Espaces, but it does happen from time to time on all cars. I agree with George that rear springs are easy to change on the Espace - just lift the rear wheels off the ground and compress the spring, and it comes out easily.

As I'm in Denmark, I can't recommend a supplier.

Good luck :)

- Anders

I've experienced it on the J63's but never heard about it on JE. If the car height is ok unloaded and a visual on springs is ok, new dampers would cure.

Thanks for the input guys. I asked a local Quickfit to check the rear suspension whilst they were re-gassing my aircon yesterday and they said they didn't see any problem with it. I must admit that I am still a little confused whether I should be getting springs or dampers and they seem to be quite expensive here, about €60 or €70 each. What's the best way of compressing the spring to get it out/in, do you think I would get away with using a couple of pairs of mole grips or is that a stupid question? I have a G clamp but can't imagine how it would fit in. Thanks again, Mark

Easy way is to remove the lower shock absorber mount.
Lever the axle down and the spring can be removed, replaced.
George.

I'll give it my best shot, thanks again. Mark