How To Replace a Strut

If you think your car rides roughly and you are having handling problems, you might have to change your struts, as this contributes greatly to how the front side of your car handles, especially when it comes to cornering. You at least need to have basic mechanical skills, the appropriate tools to make the job safe and follow these nine simple steps.

1. Raise your car with the use of a jack. Raise the front end enough that you can put it on jack stands.
2. Remove your wheels. Remember to first spray some WD-40 or other penetrating fluid on all of the nuts and bolts on both of your wheels so that these will loosen it up, making it easier for you to remove.
3. Remove the strut. Since the removal of the strut is different to different types of vehicles, it is recommended that you have a copy of your car's manual with you. In general, you have to remove everything that is connected to the strut assembly. Some may have to open their hood to do this. It all depends on the type of vehicle you have. Once the strut is free from your vehicle, safely remove it and place it on the floor.
4. Remove the strut mount. With a help of a strut spring compressor, put some pressure on the spring enough for you to remove a large nut and the strut bearing located on the very top of the strut with a help of a wrench. This allows you to remove the strut mount.
5. Assemble the new strut. Put in the new strut similar to how you removed the old one. Torque the shaft with the required amount according to the torque specifications. Carefully remove the pressure of the strut compressor overlaying the new strut with the spring. It is always good to check every part that could be checked before proceeding to the next step. You may not want to do this again anytime soon, so at least check if you need some parts repaired or replaced, most of all the parts that you only have access to while your strut is not installed.
6. Install the new strut into the vehicle. This is rather easier than removing it, as you only do the reverse of removing the strut. Always make sure to tighten the nuts and bolts to the manufacturer's specification to ensure maximum efficiency.
7. Double check your work. After you have installed the new strut, check if everything is in place. Examine other parts of the car. Recheck the torque specifications.
8. You can now put the wheels back in.
9. Lower your vehicle. Use the jack to raise up enough for you to remove the jack stands and then lower your vehicle to the ground.

It is always better if you have all of the right tools that you need before you attempt to correctly and safely replace worn out struts. Always follow how it should be done right with the help of your manual. Do not hesitate to ask for help if you think you can't do this alone. There is nothing wrong with asking for help, especially when replacing mechanical parts, which might lead to accidents. And most of all, always practice everything safely to avoid any untoward incident.