This is a general outline; details may vary slightly:
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Strut compressor: Essential and non-negotiable. Struts are under high pressure and can cause serious injury if compressed improperly. Rent one if you don't own one.
* Sockets and wrenches: A variety of sizes, including metric. Your repair manual will specify the correct sizes.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the correct specifications (found in your repair manual).
* Ratchet and extensions: To reach those hard-to-get-to bolts.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
Steps (General Outline - Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Raise and Secure the Vehicle: Jack up the front of the car and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Disconnect Brake Caliper (if necessary): Some procedures may require temporarily disconnecting the brake caliper to get better access. Support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to keep it from dangling and damaging the brake line. Consult your repair manual.
5. Disconnect Sway Bar Link: Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut.
6. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): Some models may have an ABS sensor connected to the strut. Carefully disconnect it.
7. Remove the Brake Caliper (if necessary): If you had to remove the caliper, now it's time to take it off (if necessary) and ensure that the brake pads do not fall out.
8. Remove the Strut Mounting Bolts: There will be several bolts securing the strut to the control arm and the chassis. Use penetrating oil if needed and carefully remove them.
9. Compress the Strut: Using your strut compressor, carefully compress the strut spring. This is the most dangerous step, and improper technique can result in serious injury. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your strut compressor precisely.
10. Remove the Strut Assembly: Once the strut is compressed enough, you should be able to remove the entire strut assembly from the vehicle.
11. Install the New Strut: Reverse the removal process to install the new strut assembly. Make sure to compress the new strut spring using the strut compressor before installing it in the vehicle. Ensure that all components are aligned correctly.
12. Reconnect everything: Reattach the sway bar link, ABS sensor (if applicable), brake caliper, and wheel.
13. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
14. Torque Specifications: Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using your torque wrench. This is crucial for safety and proper handling.
15. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
16. Test Drive: After completing both sides, carefully test drive the vehicle to ensure proper handling and braking.
Important Considerations:
* Parts: Ensure you purchase the correct struts for your specific 2000 Oldsmobile Alero. Some auto parts stores can look up the correct part based on your VIN.
* Alignment: After replacing the struts, it's highly recommended to get a wheel alignment to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications. If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed struts can lead to dangerous driving conditions and potential injury.
