how to replace worn out struts on my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

638 words

Problem Statement

Step-by-step guide to replace worn struts on Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present). Learn symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and installation process.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use a jack stand when working under a vehicle.
•Ensure coil springs are properly compressed to avoid injury.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps
•Poor handling and increased body roll during turns
•Uneven tire wear
•Noise from the suspension (clunking or rattling)
•Vehicle sits lower than normal

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect struts visually for signs of leaking fluid or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing rebound behavior.
3
Check for any misalignment or uneven tire wear.
4
Examine surrounding suspension components for wear or damage.
5
Scan for any relevant error codes with an OBD-II scanner (if applicable).
6
Measure the height of the vehicle from the ground to the wheel arch to confirm sagging.

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

•Socket set
•Jack and jack stands
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor
•Pry bar
•Safety glasses
•Gloves

Parts Required

•New struts (front and/or rear)
•Strut mounts (if needed)
•Coil spring (if damaged)

Related Faults

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect struts visually for signs of leaking fluid or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing rebound behavior.
3
Check for any misalignment or uneven tire wear.
4
Examine surrounding suspension components for wear or damage.
5
Scan for any relevant error codes with an OBD-II scanner (if applicable).
6
Measure the height of the vehicle from the ground to the wheel arch to confirm sagging.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Socket set, jack and jack stands, torque wrench, strut spring compressor, pry bar, safety glasses, gloves.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues during the process.

2. Raise the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on the struts being replaced.
Secure the vehicle on jack stands for safety.

3. Remove the Wheel

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

4. Remove the Strut Assembly

Upper Mount:
- Locate the upper strut mount inside the engine compartment or under the rear seat (varies by model).
- Remove the bolts securing the strut mount using a socket set.
Lower Mount:
- At the bottom of the strut, remove the nuts securing the strut to the steering knuckle or control arm.
Carefully pull the strut assembly out of the vehicle. You may need to use a pry bar to detach it from the knuckle.

5. Disassemble the Strut

Spring Compressor:
- Using a strut spring compressor, compress the coil spring to relieve tension.
- Remove the top nut holding the strut mount, then take off the strut mount and bearing.
Carefully release the spring compressor to fully remove the coil spring from the strut.

6. Install New Strut

Place the coil spring onto the new strut.
Reinstall the strut mount and bearing, securing it with the top nut (tighten to manufacturer's specifications).
Ensure the strut is properly seated in the mount.

7. Reinstall Strut Assembly

Insert the strut assembly back into the vehicle, aligning it with the upper and lower mounting points.
Tighten the lower mount nuts and the upper mount bolts to the specified torque values.

8. Reattach Wheel and Lower Vehicle

Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Use the jack to lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.