Toyota Supra Mk5 VDC suspension shock absorbers front and rear
Toyota Supra MK5 (A90/A91) uses a Variable Dampening Control (VDC) system, officially branded by Toyota as Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). This system, shared with the BMW Z4 (G29), uses electronic solenoids within the shock absorbers to adjust damping force in real-time based on road conditions and drive mode (Normal vs. Sport).
If you are looking for replacements or upgrades, here is the technical breakdown for the front and rear units.
1. Front Suspension (Strut Assembly)
The front uses a MacPherson strut design with an integrated electronic connector at the top of the piston rod.
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Design: Gas-pressure twin-tube strut.
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OEM Part Numbers (Typical): * Right:
48510-WAA04(orWAA01/02/06)-
Left:
48520-WAA04(orWAA01/02/06)
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Note: The 2.0L models in some markets do not come with AVS/VDC. Always verify the connector at the top of your strut tower before ordering.
2. Rear Suspension (Shock Absorber)
The rear is a multi-link setup where the shock and spring are mounted separately (divorced setup).
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Design: Gas-pressure monotube or twin-tube (depending on specific production year).
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OEM Part Number (Typical):
48530-WAA04 -
Mounting: Eyelet bottom mount with a pin-style top mount.
Comparison: OEM vs. Aftermarket Options
| Feature | OEM AVS / VDC Shocks | Aftermarket (VDC Compatible) | Aftermarket (Non-VDC) |
| Control | Dashboard Switch (Sport/Normal) | Plug-and-Play (e.g., Bilstein EVO SE) | Manual Adjustment (Coilovers) |
| Ride Quality | Balanced/Adaptive | Improved High-Speed Damping | Stiff/Track-Focused |
| Error Codes | None | None | Requires “EDC Delete” modules |
| Price (Set) | ~$1,200 – $1,800 | ~$2,500 – $3,500 | $1,200 – $5,000+ |
Common Upgrade Paths
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Plug-and-Play Upgrades: If you want to keep your interior buttons functional, the Bilstein EVO SE or KW DDC coilovers are the gold standard. They plug directly into the factory Toyota/BMW wiring harness.
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Lowering Springs: If your shocks are still good but you want a better stance, H&R or MSS Adjustable Springs are popular. These work with your factory VDC shocks, though they can increase wear on the factory valving over time.
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VDC Delete: If you move to high-end race coilovers (like Ohlins or Nitron), you will need an EDC (Electronic Damper Control) Delete Kit from companies like KW or Macht Schnell to prevent a chassis malfunction warning on your dash.
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