How do you remove front suspension struts?
Removing front suspension struts is a common maintenance task for many vehicles. This process involves safely disconnecting and removing the strut assembly, which includes the shock absorber and spring. Proper removal of the front suspension struts is crucial to ensure the safety and handling of your vehicle. In this article, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of removing front suspension struts.
Preparing for Strut Removal
Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment, including a jack, jack stands, a socket set, and a spring compressor. It's also important to consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.
Steps to Remove Front Suspension Struts
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on, but do not remove them yet.
- Raise the vehicle using the jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheel to access the strut assembly.
- Disconnect the brake caliper and move it out of the way, being careful not to stretch the brake line.
- Locate the top strut mount and remove the securing nuts or bolts.
- Use a spring compressor to safely release the tension on the spring.
- Once the spring is released, disconnect the lower strut mount from the control arm.
- Carefully remove the entire strut assembly from the vehicle.
Remember to follow all safety precautions and consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions. Proper removal of the front suspension struts is crucial to ensure the safety and handling of your vehicle.
Conclusion
Removing front suspension struts can be a straightforward task, but it's important to follow the correct procedures and safety guidelines. By taking the necessary precautions and using the right tools, you can successfully remove and replace your vehicle's front suspension struts. If you're unsure about any part of the process, it's always best to consult a professional mechanic.
How to remove front suspension strut?
Removing the Old Strut
- Remove the bolts from the steering knuckle.
- Open the hood and locate the strut towers to remove the bolts.
- Pull the old strut free.
- If you have access to a spring compressor, consider removing the spring.
- Assemble the new strut.
Is it easy to replace struts yourself?
Shock replacement is relatively simple, but strut replacement can be challenging and not the best DIY project for a novice who is limited with tool selection (especially air tools), who lives in the rust belt or does not have a service manual.
How do you remove old struts?
To remove the top of the strut, pop your hood and remove the nuts securing the top hat to the chassis. Once you have all the fasteners removed, you should be able to wiggle the strut free from the other suspension components. If necessary, support the lower control arm using a jack.
What is the average labor cost to replace front struts?
Estimated labor costs for replacing a shock and strut assembly can range anywhere from $150 to $300 per assembly. Auto repair shops charge higher labor costs to help cover the greater overhead of running a physical facility. Dealerships may charge even more because of their affiliation with the vehicle's manufacturer.
What tools do you need to remove struts?
Tools you will need
- Floor jack (not your car's emergency jack)
- Axle stands.
- Wheel lug wrench.
- Torx socket set.
- Allen (hexagon) key set.
- Ratchet and socket set.
- Torque wrench.
- Spring compressor tool (if changing the spring)
Do you need a special tool for struts?
Shock and strut installation tool kits from several respected tool manufacturers are available. These kits include specially engineered sockets – called pass-through sockets – that allow technicians to install new shock absorbers and struts without spinning the piston rod or gripping it in a way that causes damage.
