Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Wheel chocks
- Socket wrench set
- Impact wrench (optional)
- Strut spring compressor
- Replacement front struts
- New strut mount/bearing assembly (if required)
- New strut mount nuts and bolts
- Brake cleaner or degreaser
- Thread locker
Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle
1. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent your car from rolling.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels you'll be working on, but don't remove them completely.
Step 2: Raise the Vehicle
3. Use a jack to carefully lift the front end of the vehicle until the affected wheels are off the ground.
4. Place jack stands under the appropriate points on the vehicle's frame to support it safely.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel(s)
5. Remove the lug nuts and set them aside safely.
6. Take off the wheel(s) and set them aside.
Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper
7. Locate the brake caliper on the side you're working on.
8. Remove the bolts holding the brake caliper in place.
9. Gently lift and support the caliper without displacing the brake line. You can use a zip-tie or wire to hang it from a suspension component.
Step 5: Remove the Strut Assembly
10. Use a socket wrench to remove the strut mount nuts at the top of the strut assembly.
11. Use a spring compressor to compress the coil spring. Be very cautious while doing this, as compressed springs pose high risk of injury if mishandled.
12. Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.
Step 6: Install the New Struts
13. Check the new strut assembly to make sure it's compatible with your vehicle.
14. If needed, replace the strut mount/bearing assembly.
15. Install the new strut assembly into the vehicle. Tighten the strut mount nuts temporarily.
16. Release the spring compressor slowly and carefully.
Step 7: Reattach the Brake Caliper
17. Reinstall the brake caliper and secure it with the bolts you removed earlier.
Step 8: Reattach the Wheel(s)
18. Clean the hub area with brake cleaner to ensure proper seating of the wheel.
19. Replace the wheel(s) and secure the lug nuts by hand.
20. Lower the vehicle using the jack. Once it's at the ground level, tighten the lug nuts fully with a wrench.
Step 9: Final Torquing
21. Lower the vehicle completely.
22. Tighten the strut mount nuts to the specified torque indicated in your Mazda 6 Repair Manual.
23. Double-check all the bolts and nuts are properly tightened.
Step 10: Test Drive
24. Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure smooth operation of the new struts.
Remember, this process requires careful attention to safety. If you're not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, it's best to seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic. Additionally, always refer to your vehicle's specific repair manual for accurate instructions and torque specifications for your model.
