KYB 234040 Suspension Strut - Rear Left

KYB Excel-G Rear Left Strut

The KYB Excel-G 234040 is a rear left suspension strut built to restore original ride control, stability, and steering response. It is a direct OE-style replacement for select Ford, Mercury, and Mazda applications, including the Ford Escort, Mercury Tracer, Mazda MX-3, Mazda 323, and Mazda Protege.

KYB’s Excel-G line is calibrated to return the vehicle to its designed handling balance rather than change the suspension feel. This part number, 234040, uses a nitrogen gas-charged twin-tube design and OE-quality components for consistent damping on the road.

Key Features

• KYB recommended OEM replacement strut for rear left applications
• Restores designed control, handling, and body movement response
• Triple-lip fluid seal helps reduce oil and gas leakage
• Vehicle-specific, hand-assembled damping valves manage tire contact and steering response
• Strong strut body and bracket design helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Electronic safety systems rely on suspension performance that matches factory intent
• Part number 234040 is part of the KYB Excel-G OE replacement line

Product Line Details

KYB Excel-G is KYB’s OE replacement product line for drivers who want factory-style suspension behavior. As an OE supplier to new vehicle manufacturers, KYB builds Excel-G on the same assembly lines and with the same quality standards used for original equipment applications. For shoppers comparing KYB 234040 against other rear left struts, this line is focused on restoring original ride characteristics for vehicles such as the Ford Escort and Mazda Protege.

What This Strut Helps Address

• Excessive bouncing after bumps
• Loose or delayed handling response
• Reduced tire contact during cornering and braking
• Uneven suspension control from a worn rear left strut
• Noise or vibration caused by degraded strut performance

Installation Notes and Fitment

Compatible with select 1990-1996 rear left applications. Fits 1991-1996 Ford Escort, rear left; Fits 1991-1996 Mercury Tracer, rear left; Fits 1992-1995 Mazda MX-3, rear left; Fits 1990-1994 Mazda 323, rear left; Fits 1990-1994 Mazda Protege, rear left. Replace the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer instructions where noted, and verify whether the vehicle has electronic adjustable suspension before ordering for Mazda 323 applications.

For noise and vibration control, KYB recommends new strut mounts, part number SM5046. To help protect the new strut from dirt, debris, and salt, KYB recommends a strut boot, part number SB118. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 71880) for the same application.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE supplier, and Excel-G is built on OE-quality components with factory-style calibration for original ride performance. The nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube construction and sealed design support consistent damping in everyday driving conditions.