KYB 344613 Suspension Strut - Rear

KYB Excel-G Rear Strut for Matrix and Vibe

The KYB Excel-G 344613 is a rear suspension strut built to restore original ride control, stability, and steering response on select 2003-2006 Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe models. It uses a nitrogen gas-charged, twin-tube design with OE-style calibration for drivers who want factory-like handling behavior.

Key Features

• KYB recommended OE replacement strut for rear suspension service
• Restores designed control, handling, 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
• Made in USA
• Electronic safety systems depend on suspension performance staying close to manufacturer intent
• R-stop design included

Product Details

KYB Excel-G part number 344613 is part of the Excel-G line, KYB’s OE-style replacement series for drivers who want suspension performance restored rather than changed. KYB builds this rear suspension strut on the same OE assembly lines used for original equipment production, using OE-quality components and calibration targeted to factory ride characteristics. For 2003-2006 Toyota Matrix rear strut replacement and 2003-2006 Pontiac Vibe rear strut replacement, this part supports consistent damping and predictable road feel.

Cross-reference: Monroe Shocks & Struts 71375 for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Excessive rear bounce or oscillation
• Loose or unstable handling over uneven pavement
• Reduced lane-change responsiveness
• Uneven tire contact caused by worn damping control
• Noise and vibration from aging rear suspension components

Installation Notes

Fits 2003-2006 Toyota Matrix, rear. Fits 2003-2006 Pontiac Vibe, rear. Replace the suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. KYB recommends new strut mounts, part number SM5382, to reduce noise and vibration, and a KYB strut boot, part number SB108, to help protect the strut from dirt, debris, and salt. Verify all mounting dimensions before installation, including compressed length 11.29, extended length 15.43, stroke length 4.14, lower mount type E2(14.4X55), and upper mount type S1(12MM).

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE shock and strut supplier, and the Excel-G line is engineered to match original suspension behavior using OE-quality components and vehicle-specific damping calibration. Part number 344613 is built to support factory-style ride control on the Matrix and Vibe rear suspension.