TEMS Question

[suprabran]

I am about to replace my shocks, I have the TEMS system. What shocks can I get? I found some monroes sensa shock it says for TEMS and then under it says EXC. TEMS. what happens if you replace a non TEMS with a TEMS system? How long do shocks last?

[bgrieger]

If you install non tems shocks, your tems stop doing anything. Nothing bad, but nothing great either. The only tems compatible shocks are from Tokico, and have a reputation of being hit or miss on lifespan. I guess Toyota is an option too if you're feeling flush with cash.

The Tokico used to be lifetime guarantee, and may still be though I ditched TEMS at the first opportunity and haven't looked at them since.

[Jeeves]

I replaced two of my struts at one point with Tokico Illuminas (The TEMS replacements) and found them to be VERY lacking. They were a total disappointment when it came to feel for the money. Ditch TEMS and get solid, normal struts and a good springs package and you'll be set.

[suprabran]

I was thinking KYB or Monroe. What did you other guys go with? I don't mind loosing the TEMS I was just more concerned that it would mess up something. When you put replacement shock in for non TEMS do you have to disconnect the TEMS system? or just ignore it?

[bgrieger]

I ditched the whole works and went coilovers...never looked back, although I wouldn't buy Tein's again having experienced some of the other offerings out there. Among the spring and strut combos, koni/eibach are considered a nice pairing for street use. I've driven a few of these equipped cars and they always felt great on the street. Quite forgiving, but beat stock hands down.

You can simply remove the motors from the strut tops and that will effectively disable the system. If you don't like the blinky lights in the dash, you could also remove/unplug the TEMS computer which is behind the rear passenger interior panel in the hatch where the antenna is. I then took the dash apart and removed the lights themselves and covered the space with a matching black plastic insert to remove all signs it was ever in the car, but I'm picky like that.

I can't remember if you can see it or get it out through the little access port though.

[wambus]

My TEMS is not working exactly correctly. It ratchets up the tension at odd times and not when you would think it should. I might look into that later on. I replaced my struts with factory. I had a great conversation with the sales guy and he set me up with wholesale pricing at the counter. That has been a real plus for those parts that you just can't get anywhere but at the dealer.