Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket wrench set
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Pry bar
- New front struts
- Spring compressors (if necessary)
Procedure:
1. Safety First:
- Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels, but don't remove them completely.
2. Raise the Vehicle:
- Use the jack to lift the front of the vehicle until the tires are off the ground.
- Secure the vehicle on jack stands to ensure it's stable.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels.
3. Remove the Stabilizer Bar Link:
- Locate the stabilizer bar link connected to the strut.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the retaining clip that holds the link to the strut.
- Unscrew the nut and bolt securing the link to the strut, and remove the link.
4. Remove the Brake Line Bracket:
- Unbolt the brake line bracket from the strut using a socket wrench.
- Carefully move the brake line aside to avoid damage.
5. Release the Strut Mount Bolts:
- Open the hood of the vehicle.
- Locate the strut mount bolts in the engine bay.
- Loosen the nuts and bolts holding the strut mount to the body of the vehicle.
- Don't remove these bolts completely yet.
6. Compress the Spring (if necessary):
- If your struts incorporate coil springs, you may need to compress them before removing the strut.
- Use spring compressors to carefully compress the spring, following the manufacturer's instructions provided with the compressors.
7. Remove the Strut Mount Bolts:
- Once the spring is compressed (if necessary), return to the engine bay and fully remove the strut mount bolts.
- Be cautious as the strut may move suddenly once the bolts are removed.
8. Remove the Strut:
- Lower the strut assembly carefully from the vehicle.
- Be mindful of any brake lines or electrical connections that may be attached to the strut.
- Disconnect any remaining connections if necessary.
9. Install the New Strut:
- Position the new strut assembly into place.
- Secure the strut mount bolts in the engine bay. Tighten them to the recommended torque specified in your vehicle's service manual.
10. Reconnect the Brake Line Bracket and Stabilizer Bar Link:
- Reattach the brake line bracket and the stabilizer bar link to the new strut.
11. Lower the Vehicle:
- Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
12. Reinstall the Wheels:
- Put the wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts.
13. Test the Suspension:
- Perform a few test bounces on the front end of the vehicle to ensure it feels stable.
14. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
- Tighten the lug nuts to the recommended torque using a torque wrench.
15. Safety Check:
- Double-check all bolts, nuts, and connections to ensure they are secure.
- Test drive the vehicle to make sure the suspension is functioning properly.
Note:
Strut replacement can be complex, and some models may have additional steps or variations in the procedure. Refer to a service manual or consult with a professional mechanic if you're unsure or uncomfortable performing the task.
