Installing new struts on a vehicle is a simple task, even for those who don’t have any technical or automotive experience. However, it is a task that can be quite time-consuming for anyone who has not done this particular chore before.
To start, loosen the lug nuts and support the vehicle on jack stands. Take the tire off and then take off the brake calipers. This part will look somewhat different from vehicle to vehicle. Do not disconnect the brake line as this is not absolutely necessary and will further complicate the task.
Now remove the rotor (the smooth circular metal disk that the brake pads and then take off the hub and bearing. When doing this, remember the order and placement of these parts. Next, separate the axle and transaxle and then unscrew the nut that attaches the tie rod to the knuckle. Now, remove the lower ball joint from the lower control arm so you can get to the nuts securing the cover plate. Remove the nuts and the entire strut assembly.
Now, simply position the new strut in place of the old one. Replace the cover plate and tighten the nuts that secure it. Then put the ball joint back in the lower control arm. Replace the nut that secures the tie rod to the knuckle, and put the transaxle back into position with the axle.
Next, put the bearing and hub back into position and slide the rotor back in place. Put the caliper assembly back into position on top of the rotor. Hopefully, the brake pads are still in place as they will occasionally drop out when the caliper is removed from the rotor. If they do drop out, you will have to compress the caliper back into position to be able to get it mounted back onto the rotor. After the caliper is aligned properly on the rotor, simply put the tire back on. Lightly tighten the lug nuts, lower the car off the jack and torque the lug nuts properly.
Bond Mejeh produces automotive related articles for Quick Cash Auto, a cash for cars service. Quick Cash Auto not only buys pre-owned vehicles of any year, make or model, but they also provide numerous articles about vehicle repair and automotive news.
