KYB 344612 Suspension Strut - Rear

KYB Excel-G Rear Suspension Strut

The KYB Excel-G 344612 is a rear suspension strut built to restore original ride control, stability, and handling response. It is a direct-fit OE-style replacement for select 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe models with rear strut applications.

KYB’s Excel-G line is calibrated to return the vehicle to its designed damping characteristics rather than change the ride feel. This part number 344612 uses a nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube design and is assembled on KYB OE production lines with OE-quality components.

Key Features

• OE replacement rear strut for select Corolla, Matrix, and Vibe applications
• Restores designed control, lane-change response, and body motion management
• 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
• Internal rebound spring and R-stop design for controlled suspension movement
• Made in USA
• Recommended KYB strut mount: SM5382
• Recommended KYB strut boot: SB108

Detailed Description

KYB Excel-G part number 344612 is an Original Equipment for the Aftermarket (OEA) style suspension strut engineered for rear suspension service on 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla, 2003-2008 Toyota Matrix, and 2003-2008 Pontiac Vibe. It is designed to restore the vehicle’s original ride control characteristics, including stability during braking, cornering, and lane changes. The strut body measures 12.55 inches compressed and 16.69 inches extended, with 4.14 inches of stroke, and uses an E2(22X40) lower mount and S1(12MM) upper mount.

This Excel-G rear strut is a practical choice when replacing worn suspension components on a Toyota Corolla rear suspension strut, Toyota Matrix rear shock and strut replacement, or Pontiac Vibe rear suspension repair. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts 71373 for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Excessive bouncing after bumps
• Reduced braking stability
• Loose or delayed steering response
• Uneven tire contact from worn damping control
• Noise or vibration from aging rear suspension components

Installation Notes and Tips

Install according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For these applications, replace the suspension strut and coil spring assembly as directed by the vehicle manufacturer. KYB recommends new strut mounts to reduce noise and vibration, and a strut boot to help protect the new strut from dirt, debris, and road salt. Verify rear fitment before ordering for 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe models.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE supplier, and the Excel-G line is produced on the same KYB OE assembly lines using OE-quality components. The design is calibrated to restore factory-style performance and support the operation of vehicle safety systems that depend on suspension, brakes, and tires working as intended.