Tools and Materials:
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Wrench
- Socket wrench
- 13 mm socket
- 15 mm socket
- 16 mm socket
- 17 mm socket
Instructions:
1. Safety Precautions:
- Engage parking brake.
- Chock front wheels to prevent rolling.
- Always use jack stands for safety when working under the car.
2. Jack up the Car:
- Position the floor jack under one of the designated jacking points near the rear wheels. Consult the vehicle's user manual for exact locations.
- Raise the vehicle with the jack until it is high enough to safely place jack stands.
- Position jack stands under designated jacking points and lower the vehicle onto the stands.
3. Remove the Rear Wheels:
- Use the wheel wrench or lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts of one of the rear wheels.
- Remove the lug nuts and lift off the wheel.
- Repeat this step for the other rear wheel.
4. Locate Adjusting Bolts:
- On either side of the car near the rear axle, locate the adjusting bolts. These bolts have large hex heads.
5. Adjust the Ride Height:
- Use the appropriate socket wrench and socket (usually 13 mm or 15 mm) to turn the adjusting bolts. Turning the bolts clockwise will raise the car, while turning counterclockwise will lower the car.
- Make small adjustments, turning the bolts in increments, to avoid lowering the car too much or unevenly.
6. Ensure Even Height:
- Lower the car off of the jack stands just enough to allow the wheels to rest on the ground. Push the car down slightly to settle the suspension.
- Verify that the ride height is even on both sides and meets your desired level.
7. Tighten Adjusting Bolts:
- Once you have achieved the desired ride height, tighten the adjusting bolts to secure the setting.
8. Reinstall the Wheels:
- Lift the car back up using the jack and jack stands.
- Reinstall the rear wheels, tightening the lug nuts securely.
9. Lower the Car and Store Tools:
- Slowly lower the car off the jack stands.
- Remove jack and jack stands and store the tools used.
10. Test Drive:
- Take the car for a test drive over different road surfaces to ensure the ride quality is satisfactory and that there are no abnormal noises or handling issues.
Note:
If lowering the rear of the car significantly, you may need to adjust the headlights and the speedometer. Consult the vehicle's user manual or seek professional help for these adjustments.
