How to Do a Strut Inspection When Replacing the Strut Mounts on a Car

Inspecting your strut mounts when completing a repair or replacement on the strut mount system is extremely important. This will show you any excessive corrosion, cracking or other potential problems and allow you to replace those parts. Taking just a few minutes now can save you time and money down the road.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Remove the strut from the vehicle and secure the coil spring with a universal style strut compressor. Once you have done this, you can move on to the rest of the disassembly and inspection of the strut. Remember to handle the spring with care, as it has potential energy stored in it that would be dangerous to you.

2. Lift the coil spring with compressor off the strut after removing the upper strut nut. Set it out of the way. Remove the weather boot on the top of the strut. Inspect it for cracks, excessive corrosion or other disfigurement.

3. Notice the condition of the bump stop. Take it off the top of the strut and inspect it carefully. This is your last guard from bottoming your suspension out. It is extremely important for this part to be in good working order. If there is any excessive corrosion or cracking, replace it.

4. Inspect and remove the lower spring rubber. Rubber is generally fragile, as it cracks easy with heat and pressure. Inspect the condition of the rubber and consider replacing it. You are left with the strut flange itself. Inspect the inside, outside, top and bottom for excessive corrosion or cracking.