XREAS replacement cost

I’m sitting in the dealer because my XREAS has started leaking after about 175,000 miles or so on my 04 4Runner. Dealer is quoting me about 4600 to replace the whole system with a 12 mo, 12k mile warranty. Alternative was to go with the Billstein 5100 for far less. Seems like theoretically the XREAS might help with emergency handling but I can’t find anyone actually complaining about issues with the Bilsteins in that regard. I’m also a little worried about the longevity of the current XREAS systems given the difficulty that 5th gen owners have had with only 40-50k miles. So I went with the Bilsteins and we’ll see how it goes.

 

Smart move, I doubt the XREAS provides enough (or any) advantages over the bilsteins for the addition cost. I plan on ripping the XREAS out once mine goes bad.

 

Got rid of my XREAS years ago, around 100k if I recall correctly. Replaced with Bilsteins. No regrets.

 

I did this to my 5th gen 4Runner. its little better than Bilstien5100 and not bad for the price.

Is it comfy as XREAS on pavement? No, but not bad. Its decent / value for money.
Long term reliability? No clue.




I did some changes to the factory height in front and choice of rear springs. Here's the video explaining what I did to my 5th gen. Not sure if this have any value to a 2004 4Runner -
https://youtu.be/Xrp-LYkTLf8

 

The ludicrous cost of replacing X-REAS makes going with an alternative the obvious choice. Doesn’t have to be Bilsteins though. My may be helpful.