My 02 WRX wagon (Cobb stage 2) with 100K mi I believe is ready for some supsension work. The car cosmetically is not in great shape and I will probably be handing it down to my daughter soon so I don't want to put a lot of money or time into it. I was told that the rear strut is leaking oil. Should I just have the dealer replace the parts or are there some comparably priced semi-performance (performance suspension that doesn't beat you up on New England roads) upgrades recommended? I have no idea where to start; I don't do any of my own work so I would obviously have a shop do it. Thanks.

 

Look up KYB Excel Gs. They are around $100 a piece. You'll need to get all 4. Only one may be leaking, but rest assured the rest are past their service lives. Consider replacing the top hats as well.

 

Many posters have recommended Koni yellow's. Looks like they are about twice the cost of the Kyb's. Is that right? Is there a huge performance advantage? What are top hats? Anything else likely need to be replaced (sway bars, springs, etc)? Thanks.

 

I went with the KYB AGX's. Not a big jump over the excel g's but they do offer adjustability. Really stiffened up my old GC. Found them for just over $100 each on Amazon.

Your top hats are the upper mounts. If your get any noise (squeaking etc.) when turning they may be going out.