KYB 344359 Shock Absorber - Rear

KYB Excel-G Rear Shock for Kia Sportage

The KYB Excel-G 344359 is a rear suspension shock absorber for 1995-2002 Kia Sportage models. Built to restore original ride control and handling, it is a direct OE-style replacement for drivers addressing worn rear damping on the Kia Sportage.

Excel-G Product Line

KYB Excel-G shocks and struts are calibrated to return the vehicle to its original designed performance rather than alter ride characteristics. This line uses KYB OE manufacturing processes and quality components, with a nitrogen gas-charged twin-tube design for consistent damping response.

Key Features

• OE-style replacement for Asian vehicles, including the Kia Sportage
• Restores designed control, stability, stopping response, lane change behavior, and handling
• Triple-lip fluid seal helps reduce oil and gas leakage
• Vehicle-specific, hand-assembled damping valves manage tire contact, steering response, and body movement
• Supports proper operation of electronic safety systems by helping suspension, brakes, and tires work as engineered
• Strong strut body and bracket construction helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Dust cover included

Detailed Description

KYB 344359 is a rear suspension shock absorber engineered for 1995-2002 Kia Sportage applications. It measures 13.11 inches compressed, 20.91 inches extended, and provides 7.80 inches of stroke, with an E2(12x30) lower mount and S1 upper mount. The design is intended to restore the vehicle’s original ride control and damping balance, making it a practical replacement when rear suspension performance has declined. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 37231) for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Excessive rear bounce or oscillation
• Reduced stability during braking and lane changes
• Loose or inconsistent rear-end handling on the Kia Sportage
• Uneven tire contact caused by worn damping control
• Noise or leakage associated with aging shock absorber seals

Installation Notes and Tips

Compatible with 1995-2002 Kia Sportage, rear. Replace the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Verify mount style, compressed length, extended length, and stroke before installation. For best results, inspect related rear suspension components and confirm alignment after service. Part number 344359 should be matched to the vehicle’s rear position and OE-style mounting configuration.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE supplier, and Excel-G is produced on KYB OE assembly lines using OE-quality components. The 344359 is built to restore original performance characteristics for the Kia Sportage rather than change them.