Hello Honda-Tech.com!

Car:2002 Honda Civic EX 2DR 5SPD

Situation: The previous owner of the car didn't take good care of it so ever since I bought it last year, I've been fixing it up as my budget allows. My current project is to replace leaking front shocks(struts?) with something that will ride smoother than the OEM ones. The work is getting done at a dealership where a family member works. I'm most concerned with reliability and a smooth ride and I was recommended to buy KYB GR2/Excel-G front shocks(struts?).

Questions:
1. Do I need to buy KYB strut mounts or will the OEM mounts be ok to use? (Links below.) The service rep at the dealership didn't mention anything about requiring special mounts, but I've read they should be replaced while everything is already taken apart.
2. Will those shocks definitely be smoother VS the OEM replacements?
3. Is it ok to leave the rear shocks alone and only replace the fronts? The ones in the rear are ok, and I'm not sure if I can afford to have them done as well.

Front Driver's Side KYB GR-2/Excel-G
Front Passenger Side KYB GR-2/Excel-G
Front Driver/Passenger Shock & Strut Mounts

Also, why do they list a separate shock & strut mount specifically for the upper-passenger's side but not for the driver's side? It's more expensive and this is starting to get confusing.

Thanks in advance for any and all help, suggestions, or comments!

*I accidently posted this under Accord previously. This has got to be the right place now ;D

 

Any ideas on this?
Ultimately I'm trying to figure out what's going to be best for the long run, what's going to be smoother & of higher quality, if I can leave the rears alone since they're ok, and if these KYB's are going to require new strut mounts.

 

Just in case any one else is looking for the same type of information, this is what I've been able to come up with so far. Feel free to make any corrections or add info.

1. The OEM strut mounts should be ok to use since the KYB strut/shock is a direct OEM replacement.
2. All sources I've come in contact with so far agree that the KYB struts/shocks will provide a smoother ride.
3. I've been told that technically it would be ok to only replace the front shocks/struts but you'll eventually have to do the rears at some point so it's a better idea to just replace all 4. This will also help ensure a smooth and proper ride.

Thanks anyway Honda-Tech.

 

Is anyone got front struts from AutoZone, I mean their branded strut.
I don't need anything special, this is my commuter car and I'm fine with anything that is not so expensive as long as it is not a total aftermarket junk.
Thanks for any ideas.