Tools and Materials:
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Spring compressors (preferably strut spring compressors)
- New rear struts
- Replacement strut mounts (if needed)
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Preparations:
- Engage the parking brake and chock the front wheels to ensure the vehicle is stable.
- Release the lug nuts on the rear wheels but don't remove them completely.
2. Raise the Vehicle:
- Use the jack to carefully raise the rear of the vehicle until the rear wheels are off the ground.
- Securely place the jack stands under the vehicle to support its weight.
3. Remove the Rear Wheels:
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.
4. Remove the Rear Strut Assembly:
- Locate the upper strut mount bolts in the trunk of the vehicle. They're usually accessible through the trunk lining or behind a plastic cover.
- Remove these upper strut mount bolts.
- Go back under the vehicle and locate the lower strut mount bolts.
- Use the wrench to loosen and remove the lower strut mount bolts.
- The strut assembly should now be loose. Carefully pull it out from the vehicle.
- If the strut is particularly difficult to remove, you may need to use a pry bar or a punch to gently persuade it out.
5. Compressing the Spring:
- NOTE: This step can be potentially dangerous, so proceed with caution.
- Use the spring compressors to compress the coil spring on the old strut.
- Once the spring is compressed enough to release tension on the strut mount, you can release the upper strut mount bolts.
- Carefully remove the coil spring from the old strut.
6. Transfer Components to the New Strut (if applicable):
- If your new strut doesn't come pre-assembled, you may need to transfer some components from the old strut.
- This may include the spring seat, the bearing plate, and the upper strut mount.
7. Assemble the New Strut:
- Follow the reverse process of compressing the spring and installing the necessary components onto the new strut.
- Ensure everything is properly aligned and secured.
8. Reinstall the Rear Strut Assembly:
- With the new strut assembled, carefully insert it back into the vehicle.
- Install and tighten the lower strut mount bolts.
- Go into the trunk and reinstall the upper strut mount bolts.
9. Lower the Vehicle:
- Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
10. Test Drive and Re-tighten Bolts:
- Once the vehicle is back on the ground, take it for a short test drive to ensure everything feels normal and there are no unusual noises or handling issues.
- Re-tighten any loose bolts or connections if necessary.
11. Reinstall the Rear Wheels:
- Put the rear wheels back on and secure them with the lug nuts.
12. Test Drive:
- Take another test drive to ensure everything is working properly.
Remember, if you're not confident in your mechanical abilities, it's best to entrust this task to a qualified mechanic.
