Plymouth Prowler Suspension Parts: A Complete Guide to Upgrades and Replacements

The Plymouth Prowler is a unique hot rod-inspired car from the late 1990s and early 2000s. Underneath its retro body, the suspension is a mix of proven designs and some fragility. Whether you're restoring one or upgrading for better handling, knowing what suspension parts fit and where to find them is essential. This guide covers the most common issues, OEM vs aftermarket options, and the key components to consider replacing.

Common Suspension Issues in the Plymouth Prowler

The Prowler shares its platform with the Chrysler LH cars (Concorde, Intrepid, etc.), but the suspension is tuned for a sportier ride. Owners often encounter these problems:

Front Suspension Problems

• Lower control arm bushings wear quickly. The front lower control arms use large rubber bushings that deteriorate over time, causing clunking noises and vague steering.
• Ball joint failure. The upper and lower ball joints can develop play, especially if the car has been driven on rough roads. Replacements are readily available.
• Sway bar end links. These small links are prone to breaking, leading to excessive body roll and noise over bumps.

Rear Suspension Problems

• Trailing arm bushings. The rear multi-link setup uses four trailing arms. The bushings in these arms soften with age, causing rear-end wander and poor alignment.
• Lateral link bushings. The lateral links control side-to-side motion. Worn bushings here cause the rear axle to shift, leading to uneven tire wear.
• Shock absorber leaks. The original Tokico shocks tend to leak after 50,000 miles. Replacement is straightforward.

OEM vs Aftermarket Suspension Parts

When shopping for Prowler suspension parts, you'll encounter both OEM Chrysler and aftermarket alternatives. Each has its place.

When to Choose OEM

OEM parts are exact replacements. If you value originality or are restoring a low-mileage example, OEM suspension components ensure the car feels as it did from the factory. Chrysler still stocks many Prowler parts, but availability is shrinking. Common OEM parts include control arms, ball joints, and sway bars.

When Aftermarket Makes Sense

Aftermarket parts often offer improved materials or adjustability. For example, polyurethane bushings replace soft rubber with a firmer compound, reducing flex and improving handling. Companies like Energy Suspension make polyurethane bushing kits for the Prowler. Adjustable sway bars and coil-over conversion kits are also available from specialty manufacturers. If you plan to autocross or just want a sharper ride, aftermarket is the way to go.

Key Suspension Components to Replace

Here are the parts most commonly replaced, with practical advice for each.

Shocks and Struts

The Prowler uses separate shocks and struts. Front struts are actually coil-over assemblies. Many owners switch to adjustable shocks from brands like KYB or Bilstein. For the rear, the stock shocks can be upgraded to gas-charged units for better damping. If you lower the car, you'll need shorter shocks.

Control Arms and Bushings

Front lower control arms are best replaced as an assembly with new ball joints and bushings. Aftermarket arms with polyurethane bushings eliminate the need to press out old rubber. Rear trailing arms and lateral links can be rebuilt with new bushings, or you can buy complete arms from aftermarket suppliers. Be aware that pressing out old bushings requires special tools.

Sway Bars and End Links

Upgrading sway bars reduces body roll without affecting ride quality much. A 1-inch front bar from a performance supplier is a popular upgrade. Match it with a thicker rear bar if you want more oversteer. Pair with heavy-duty end links to prevent premature failure.

Where to Find Plymouth Prowler Suspension Parts

Given the Prowler's niche status, you won't find parts at chain auto stores. Instead, turn to:

• Specialty Prowler parts dealers. Online shops like Prowler Parts, ProwlerPro, and others carry OEM and aftermarket suspension parts. They know the common failure points and stock what you need.
• Chrysler dealerships. Some OEM parts are still available, but expect long lead times on certain items.
• Online forums and clubs. The Prowler Owners Association (POA) and ProwlerOnline forums are great for finding used parts or recommendations from experienced owners.
• Performance suspension manufacturers. Companies like Hotchkis, Eibach, and QA1 offer Prowler-specific products. Call them directly to confirm fitment.

Final Recommendation

For most Prowler owners, a pragmatic approach is best. Inspect your suspension thoroughly—look for cracked bushings, leaking shocks, and play in ball joints. Start by replacing worn rubber bushings with polyurethane for a durable upgrade. Replace shocks if they're original or leaking. If you want better handling, invest in adjustable sway bars and performance-oriented coil-over kits. Stick with reputable aftermarket brands; avoid no-name parts that compromise safety. Regular alignment after any suspension work will keep your Prowler tracking straight. With the right parts, your Prowler can ride and handle better than new.