how to tell if my Toyota Camry XV70 (2018-2024) struts are worn out

Toyota Camry XV80 (2025-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

606 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to identify and replace worn struts on your Toyota Camry XV70 (2018-2024). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before working on suspension components.

Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing after hitting bumps
•Uneven tire wear observed on the front or rear tires
•Vehicle experiences a rough ride on smooth surfaces
•Difficulty in steering the vehicle, particularly during turns
•Noticeable noise, such as clunking or rattling, when driving over bumps
•Vehicle leans excessively when cornering

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Conduct a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing how the suspension reacts.
3
Check the alignment of the vehicle to see if it is within specifications.
4
Inspect the tires for uneven wear patterns indicative of suspension issues.
5
Listen for any abnormal noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
6
Test drive the vehicle over various road conditions to assess handling and comfort.

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

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor
•Socket set
•Safety glasses

Parts Required

•Replacement struts (front or rear as needed)
•New strut mounting hardware (if applicable)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing after hitting bumps

•Uneven tire wear observed on the front or rear tires

•Vehicle experiences a rough ride on smooth surfaces

•Difficulty in steering the vehicle, particularly during turns

•Noticeable noise, such as clunking or rattling, when driving over bumps

•Vehicle leans excessively when cornering

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for any signs of oil leakage or physical damage.
2
Conduct a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing how the suspension reacts.
3
Check the alignment of the vehicle to see if it is within specifications.
4
Inspect the tires for uneven wear patterns indicative of suspension issues.
5
Listen for any abnormal noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
6
Test drive the vehicle over various road conditions to assess handling and comfort.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, torque wrench, strut spring compressor, socket set, and safety glasses.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the ignition is off.
Disconnect the battery if working with electronic components near the struts.

2. Lift the Vehicle

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

3. Remove Wheel

Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the strut assembly.

4. Remove Strut Assembly

For Front Struts:
- Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
- Disconnect any brake line brackets or sensor connectors.
- Remove the nuts on top of the strut assembly located in the engine bay (may require removing the engine cover).
- Carefully lower the strut assembly out of the wheel well.
For Rear Struts:
- Remove the bolts securing the strut to the lower control arm.
- Remove the nuts from the top of the strut inside the trunk.
- Carefully pull the strut downward to detach it from the vehicle.

5. Replace Strut

Using the strut spring compressor, compress the coil spring on the old strut and carefully remove it.
Install the spring onto the new strut and ensure it is properly seated.
Reinstall the strut assembly into the vehicle, reversing the removal steps.

6. Reassemble

Replace the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle and then torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.
Reconnect the battery if it was disconnected.