Before removing the wheels, free the front wheel lug nuts, lift the front part of the vehicle and place it on jackstands. On 2007 and subsequent year models, unplug the ends of the stabilizer bar links from the strut. Then, unbolt the brake hose bracket from the strut, and if the car is equipped with antilock brakes, then unscrew the clamp bracket to disconnect the speed sensor connectors from the strut. The nut attached to the lower most part of the strut connects it to the
Steering Knuckle; therefore, you should unbolt the strut-to-knuckle nuts, and depending in the stubborn bolts, use a hammer and punch. Gently pry the strut away from the steering knuckle while avoiding to stretch the inner CV joint too far to where the knuckle will be forced downward, and can cut the brake hose. An assistant will have to support the strut while the upper mounting nuts are being loosened and the strut assembly being taken out of the fenderwell. As for the models produced in 2011 and later, you must take off the upper cowl panel to get to the upper mounting nuts. There are some factors that one need to look at, they include; Examining the strut body for signs of leakages of fluids, dents, cracks and other related damages that may lead to some repair or replacing of the strut body. The coil spring should be looked for chipped or cracked surface layers that may result to the corrosion of the spring and thus failure, check the springs seat for cuts, hardness and signs of deterioration. If any problems are detected, move to the disassembling of the strut. To mount, slide the strut assembly into the faderwell upper mounting studs then through the holes in the strut tower and lock them with nuts to avoid the strut to drop back. Slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange align the bolt hole with the strut flange hole, screws the bolts and then tightens the nuts. Secure the brake hose locating bracket to the strut and if this car model is fitted with ABS, fit and tighten the wheel speed sensor bracket and bolt. Next, screw the wheel and the lug nuts tightly, raised the vehicle and then further tighten the mounting nuts.