I have a 2003 S-type R SC. The last 6 digits of my VIN are M68736. How can I tell if my car has the CATS or not? Definitely needs replaced in the rear but would like to kind of know which set of shocks I need to get.

 

Welcome! All S-Type R's (STR) come with the CATS (electronic dampening) suspension. Let's talk about modding that sucker.

 

Well thanks for the reply bfsgross I appreciate the information. Is there any way I can use just a standard sport suspension shock instead of those high dollar CATS shocks? This is just a daily driver for my wife and I really don't want to spend that kind of money if I can use the standard sports suspension shocks. Anyway I can disconnect the CATS and use the standard sports suspension shocks? As for 'modding that sucker', if it was more than just a daily driver I would but for her it is merely transportation.

 

This particular issue has been covered a lot before on this forum

Read post number 22 in this thread,

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...ilstein-89046/

probably some worth while reading in this thread as well:

S type R non-CATS - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum

How to tell if your STR is cats equipped, will have these connectors at the strut towers,
http://www.pictrace.com/i/wCATSjaguar.jpg

If it is not CATS equipped, it will have no connectors at the strut towers, as such:
http://www.pictrace.com/i/noCATSjaguar.jpg

 

Great pics; nicely done. Easy to understand, even for a non-mechanical neanderthal like me. Thnx!

 

Yep. Search and Advanced Search are pretty good, when used.

 

Are you sure they are bad? Is there any oil leaking or is the body of the strut oily? I have 90K miles on my 2005 STR and the struts are still in good condition.

They are pricey to change.
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Ok, since my wife's car is nothing more than a daily driver, I plan on using the Bilstein B4 Sports shocks. How difficult is it to use these non-CATS v CATS? If it were something that she used for more than a daily driver I would consider making the investment in the CATS but as it is I am going Bilstein sports. This is on the rear of the car btw.... any helpful replies would be appreciated?