How to Replace Strut & Spring Assembly 02-06 Nissan Altima
Difficulty: Advanced · About 70 min · Nissan Altima
Replace the strut and spring assembly on a 2002-2006 Nissan Altima.
Tools you will need
- 21mm socket
- Hammer
- Torque wrench
- 14mm socket
- 17mm socket
- Jack stands
- 19mm socket
- Ratchet
- Floor jack
Parts and supplies
- Strut and spring assembly
Steps
- Remove the wheel
Loosen the lug nuts with a 19mm socket and breaker bar, raise and support the car, then remove the lug nuts and wheel.
- Remove the old strut
Soak the bottom strut bolts in penetrating oil, remove the stabilizer link using 19mm and 17mm sockets on either side, unclip the ABS line, remove the two 19mm nuts at the bottom of the strut, unbolt the three 14mm nuts at the top in the engine bay, then pull the strut out.
- Install the new strut
Line it up and thread on the three 14mm top nuts, slide the bottom into place and thread in the two bolts, torque the 14mm nuts to about 35 ft-lb and the 19mm bolts to about 85 ft-lb, refit the stabilizer link, then clip the ABS line back onto the strut.
- Reinstall the wheel
Put it back on and thread the lug nuts, lower the car, then torque the lug nuts to about 100 ft-lb in a star pattern.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.