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Bilstein 24-218689 Suspension Shock Absorber - Rear
Bilstein B6 Rear Shock for Vanagon
The Bilstein B6 Performance shock absorber, part number 24-218689, is a rear suspension upgrade for Volkswagen Vanagon models that use the factory spring. It uses a monotube internal design and application-specific valving to improve handling response and road control while maintaining OE-style spring compatibility.
Key Features
- Bilstein B6 Performance series rear shock absorber
- Monotube internal design for consistent damping response
- Application-specific valve settings tuned for the vehicle
- Yellow painted finish with blue straight boot included
- Eye 12.0mm upper mount and Eye 12.0mm lower mount
- Built to meet or exceed OE quality standards through rigorous testing
Product Details
Bilstein B6 Performance dampers are engineered as an OE damper upgrade for vehicles retaining the factory spring. For the Volkswagen Vanagon, this rear shock absorber is designed to sharpen handling, improve stability, and support safer road manners without changing the original spring setup. The B6 Performance line focuses on controlled damping and consistent performance, making part number 24-218689 a direct choice for drivers looking to restore or refine rear suspension behavior on the Vanagon.
This part fits 1990-1991 Volkswagen Vanagon, rear, and 1986-1989 Volkswagen Vanagon, rear, Type 14" Suspension; B6 Performance. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 172286, 182286) for the same application.
Common Issues This Part Can Address
- Excessive rear-end bounce over bumps
- Loose or unsettled handling in the rear suspension
- Reduced damping control from worn OE shocks
- Uneven ride response during cornering or braking
- Loss of stability on rough or uneven pavement
Installation Notes and Tips
Install 24-218689 on the rear of compatible Volkswagen Vanagon applications only. Confirm the upper and lower eye mount dimensions match the vehicle before installation, and verify whether the van uses the 14-inch suspension configuration on 1986-1989 models. Because this damper is intended to work with the OE factory spring, inspect the rear springs, bushings, and mounting points at the same time for wear.
Quality Assurance
Bilstein tests B6 Performance dampers to meet or exceed OE standards, with quality control focused on consistent damping and durability. The B6 Performance line is built around Bilstein’s monotube shock technology and vehicle-specific tuning for dependable rear suspension performance.
| Brand | Bilstein |
| Part Number | 24-218689 |
| Position | B6 Performance, Rear |
| Boot Included | Blue straight |
| Finish | Yellow paint |
| Internal Design | Monotube |
| Lower Mount Type | Eye 12.0mm |
| Series | B6 performance |
| Title | Bilstein shock absorbers |
| Upper Mount Type | Eye 12.0mm |
This part fits 6 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Submodel | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Syncro | Rear | B6 Performance |
| 1990 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Syncro | Rear | B6 Performance |
| 1989 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Syncro | Rear | Type 14" Suspension; B6 Performance |
| 1988 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Syncro | Rear | Type 14" Suspension; B6 Performance |
| 1987 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Syncro | Rear | Type 14" Suspension; B6 Performance |
| 1986 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Syncro | Rear | Type 14" Suspension; B6 Performance |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.