Mercedes W176 Spring Strut Front Right O/S Suspension Shock Absorber A1173200238

The Front Right Shock Absorber with Strut for Mercedes W176 is an original suspension component designed for the front axle on the passenger side. Thanks to its factory Mercedes construction, it ensures precise vehicle handling, stability in corners, and predictable vehicle behavior during braking and acceleration, which directly translates to driving comfort and safety.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: A1173231600-1
• Mark: Mercedes (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: A1173231600
• Substitutable numbers: A1173231600, A 117 323 16 00, A1173200238, A 117 320 02 38
• Location on the vehicle: Front, Right
• Category: Shock & Strut Mounts

Intended Use and Vehicle Placement

The presented component belongs to the Shock Absorber and Strut Mounts group and is designed for use on the front axle, right side. It is responsible for transferring loads from the wheel to the body, damping vibrations, and maintaining proper suspension geometry in Mercedes compact class models based on the W176 chassis.

Selecting the correct component for a specific side of the vehicle is crucial for maintaining even suspension operation, correct wheel camber and toe angles, and uniform tire wear.

Construction and Technical Function

The shock absorber integrated with the strut is a load-bearing element of the front suspension, working in conjunction with other components of the steering and braking systems. In practice, this means that it:

• stabilizes the body when driving over uneven surfaces,
• reduces body roll and dive during braking,
• ensures constant tire contact with the road surface,
• affects the effectiveness of the braking system and safety systems.

Thanks to the factory Mercedes construction, the correct damping characteristics are maintained, in line with the vehicle manufacturer's specifications, which is important for both comfort and predictable vehicle behavior in emergency situations.

Benefits of Using an Original Component

Using an original shock absorber and strut mount in a Mercedes W176 allows for the integrity of the entire suspension system to be maintained. Compared to aftermarket alternatives, such a component offers:

• precise mounting fit to the steering knuckle, spring, and other suspension elements,
• compliance with factory suspension operating parameters,
• reliable interaction with the vehicle's electronic systems, if present (e.g., stability control systems),
• easier diagnostics and servicing in the future due to unambiguous assignment to the W176 platform.

Components in this group directly influence vehicle handling, therefore their correct selection and installation are important for user safety and the durability of other suspension components.

Condition and Service Application

The offered component is in used condition, making it an attractive solution for post-accident repairs, replacing a unilaterally damaged suspension, or for budget-conscious front-end refurbishment. In many cases, this allows for the restoration of correct suspension geometry and function without the need to invest in entirely new parts.

Before installation, it is recommended to perform a standard inspection of the other system components – springs, stabilizer links, control arms, and bushings – to restore the front axle to a consistent technical condition in a single service operation.

Matching by Numbers and Additional Materials

Due to the specific nature of Mercedes suspension systems, it is always advisable to confirm the correct shock absorber and strut mount selection using the OEM number and interchangeable part numbers assigned to the specific engine and equipment version. In practice, this minimizes the risk of purchasing an incompatible part and facilitates communication with the service center or seller.

If you wish to deepen your knowledge on verifying part compatibility by numbers, methods for checking the compatibility of suspension components, or drivetrain elements in Mercedes and BMW vehicles, consult our practical guide: Risk-Free Online Parts Shopping – How to Check Compatibility by OEM Numbers.

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the front suspension area in your Mercedes and require other parts from the same group, such as struts, shock absorber mounts, or brackets, check the available parts in the category Mercedes Shock Absorber and Strut Mounts.