how to replace struts on my Ford Explorer Sixth Generation

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

513 words

Problem Statement

Step-by-step guide on how to replace struts on a Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2011-2019). Includes symptoms, diagnostic steps, and safety tips.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands for safety when working under the vehicle.
•Allow the vehicle to cool down before beginning work on hot components.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing during driving
•Poor handling or stability
•Visible oil leakage from the struts
•Uneven tire wear
•Clunking or knocking noises over bumps

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the struts visually for signs of wear or leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle to assess strut responsiveness.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Look for any abnormal noises while driving over bumps.
5
Scan for any suspension-related error codes using an OBD-II scanner if applicable.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Hydraulic jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Spring compressor

Parts Required

•New struts
•Strut mounts

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the struts visually for signs of wear or leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle to assess strut responsiveness.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Look for any abnormal noises while driving over bumps.
5
Scan for any suspension-related error codes using an OBD-II scanner if applicable.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a hydraulic jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle as needed.
Secure the vehicle on jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Remove the Wheel

Using a lug wrench, remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the strut assembly.

4. Detach the Strut Assembly

Locate the strut mounting bolts on the top and bottom of the strut assembly.
Remove the top bolts using a socket wrench, followed by the bottom bolts.
If necessary, use a spring compressor to relieve tension on the coil spring.

5. Install New Strut

Position the new strut assembly in place.
Reattach the bottom bolts, ensuring they are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 100-120 ft-lbs).
Secure the top mounting bolts, also torquing them to the specified value.

6. Reinstall the Wheel

Place the wheel back onto the hub, hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle slightly to allow the wheel to rest on the ground.
Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer-recommended specifications (usually 100-110 ft-lbs).

7. Final Checks

Reconnect the battery.
Double-check all bolts and components for tightness.