Strut assembly (rear) — removal, inspection and installation
Removal
Note: When removing/replacing any rear suspension arms, loosely tighten all the bolts, move the suspension to its normal ride-height angle and position, then fully tighten the bolts.
1. Remove the rear seat and package tray trim panel (see Body).
2. Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts, raise the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the wheel.
3. Remove the flexible hose and ABS speed sensor from the shock absorber.
4. Detach the brake hose from the strut. Detach the ABS sensor wire from the strut. On models equipped with electronic modulated suspension, remove the clip and clamp and disconnect the shock absorber wiring harness.
5. Disconnect the stabilizer bar link from the strut.
6. Support the axle carrier with a floor jack.
7. Loosen the strut-to-axle carrier bolt nuts (see illustration).
10.7 To disconnect the lower end of the strut from the rear axle carrier, unbolt the brake hose from the strut, then remove these nuts and knock out the bolts (but don’t remove the bolts until after the upper strut nuts are removed and the axle carrier is supported by a floor jack)
8. Remove the three-upper strut-to-body mounting nuts (see illustration). On models equipped with electronic modulated suspension, loosen but do not remove the damper shaft (centre) nut (this is only necessary if the strut is going to be disassembled, and will require a special socket; check with your local auto parts store or tool dealer) (see Strut assembly (front) — removal, inspection and installation). Remove the assembly out from the fender well.
10.8 To disconnect the upper end of the strut from the vehicle, remove these three nuts
9. Lower the axle carrier with the jack and remove the two strut-to-axle carrier bolts.
10. Remove the strut assembly.