Changing w204 shock absorbers

[sceh]

I have a W204 2011 diesel and think it needs new shocks;
Is is possible to change just the shocks without messing with the springs or do I need a spring compressor (which I have for other cars but not sure it will fo the job here having looked at the manual).
Alternatively, I have seen units where the spring is mounted on the shocker already (at least for the front).
Any advice welcome!
thanks

 

[alecmascot]

You will need to compress the front springs.
Find a local garage who will do that for you as it needs a serious compressor...

 

[sceh]

You will need to compress the front springs.
Find a local garage who will do that for you as it needs a serious compressor...

So I need to dismount the shock and spring as a unit and get them to put the new shocker in the spring? Ordinary spring compressors won't hack it or is it just a question of danger?
thanks

 

[alecmascot]

So I need to dismount the shock and spring as a unit and get them to put the new shocker in the spring? Ordinary spring compressors won't hack it or is it just a question of danger?
thanks

yes yes yes

 

[sceh]

yes yes yes

Excellent reply! Thanks!!

 

[Petrol Pete]

You could buy a set of 'Widow makers' and DIY . Personally I would remove the front struts and pay a local garage that has a proper spring compressing unit to do it for me. The rears are DIY without needing to compress the spring.

Let us know how you get on.