1. Gather the necessary tools and parts:
- New front struts
- Set of wrenches
- Ratchet and socket set
- Spring compressors
- Strut mount
- Jack stands or ramps
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
2. Prepare your car:
- Park your car on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Ensure that the car is in "Park" (for automatic transmission) or "First gear" (for manual transmission).
- Loosen the lug nuts on the front tires, but do not remove them completely.
3. Securely lift your vehicle:
- Place jack stands or ramps under the proper designated areas of your vehicle, according to the owner's manual.
- Jack the car up until the tires are off the ground, but not high enough for the vehicle to come off the jack stands or ramps.
- Fully tighten the lug nuts so that the wheels do not rotate when the struts are removed.
4. Remove the wheels and tires:
- Remove the lug nuts on the front wheels.
- Pry the wheels off, if necessary.
- Set aside the wheels and tires.
5. Remove the old strut assemblies:
- Locate the top nut of the strut assembly inside the engine compartment.
- Remove the nut and disconnect any electrical connectors for ABS or other sensors near the strut mount.
- Remove the two bolts connecting the strut to the steering knuckle.
- Use a spring compressor to compress the spring on the strut.
- Slowly release the mounting bolts and remove the old strut assembly.
6. Install the new struts:
- Slide the new strut assembly into place.
- loosely reinstall the mounting bolts.
- Slowly release the spring compressor while reinstalling the top strut nut tightly
- Tighten the mounting bolts.
- Reattach any electrical connectors.
7. Reinstall the wheels and tires.
8. Lower the car carefully using the jack stands or ramps.
9. Test drive the car to ensure proper suspension function.
Note: It is recommended that you replace both front struts at the same time to ensure consistent handling and performance. If unsure about your ability to perform this repair, it is advisable to consult with a qualified mechanic.
