Front-end rebuild kits a good option

Q: Greg, I just bought a 1993 Pontiac Grand Am with a four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission with nearly 115,000 miles on it for a great price. It doesn’t ride that well though, and the guy I bought it from said I should look into a rebuild kit for the front end. He said he replaced the front struts at 98,000 miles, so I don’t need them. What exactly is he talking about? — Carl P., e-mail from New Jersey

A: Carl, the seller is referring to the front-end rebuild kits that are readily available and produced by several companies. The lower-priced kits include upper and lower ball joints, outer tie rod ends, upper and lower inner bushings, stabilizer link kits and strut rod bushings for about $179.95.

The better quality Polygraphite kit goes for $219.95 and includes some additional pieces. These kits are good investments and will restore that new-car ride. Also, these kits can be purchased for cars well back into 1960s.