How to change shock absorbers [AUTODOC tutorial]

How to change shock absorbers on a car – replacement tutorial

Required Tools:

                      Tap wrench
                    
                      Wheel impact socket
                    
                      Impact socket
                    
                      Jack

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Please note!

The main function of shock absorbers is to dampen the oscillations of the suspension
Shock absorbers are normally installed on the rear axle of the vehicle
The spring is installed separately, which makes it easy to replace
Shock absorbers can have bushings on both sides, or only at the bottom
In this case, there’s a piston rod and some space for the mount at the top of the part

1.

To remove the shock absorber, you need to access the lower and upper fasteners
2.

This may require removal of the wheel arch liner or disassembly of the interior trim
3.

Clean and treat the fasteners

Important!
The shock absorber limits the suspension travel, i.e. prevents the suspension from going lower than normal
4.

To take the load off the shock absorber and avoid getting injured by the spring, jack up the suspension a little before starting disassembly
5.

Loosen the lower bolt, but don’t remove it. This will keep the shock absorber secured
6.

Unscrew and remove the upper fastener, then remove the lower bolt and dismount the shock absorber
7.

Suspension shock absorbers are always replaced in pairs on an axle, so remove the part on the opposite side as well

Please note!
Depending on the shock absorber design, the rod can be secured in different waysShock absorbers that have a mount in their design should be disassembled
8.

To do this, secure the shock absorber’s piston rod in a vice and unscrew the fastener
9.

Inspect the shock absorber mount and dust cover kit, and replace if necessary
10.

Prime the new shock absorber according to the manufacturer’s instructions

AUTODOC recommends:
After priming, the shock absorber should only be kept in a vertical positionOtherwise, it will need to be primed again before installation
11.

Before installing the shock absorber, clean its mounting seats on the car body and suspension components
12.

If the shock absorber has a mount consisting of several parts, be sure to install them in the right order
13.

Fasteners with bushings should first only be screwed in
14.

Only tighten them after the suspension is set in its working position
15.

Clean the surface that will contact the wheel rim
16.

Tighten the wheel fasteners with a torque wrench to the manufacturer's recommended torque