How to Replace Rear Struts 06-11 Toyota Camry
Difficulty: Advanced · About 120 min · Toyota Camry
Replace the rear struts on a 2006–11 Toyota Camry, removing the rear seat and trim to access the upper mounts and restoring brake and ABS line brackets afterward.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- 21 mm socket
- 19 mm socket
- 14 mm wrench
- 5 mm hex wrench
- 12 mm socket
- Ratchet
- Center punch
Parts and supplies
- Rear strut assemblies
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen the lug nuts, raise and support the rear safely, then remove the wheel to access the suspension.
Remove rear seat trim for access
Release the seat cushion hooks and lift out the cushion. Fold the seat backs, release the belt trim, and remove the side bolster fasteners to expose the upper strut mounts.
Disconnect lines and sway link
Remove the sway bar link fastener while counterholding its stud. Unbolt the brake hose and ABS wire brackets from the strut, keeping the lines supported and untwisted.
Remove the rear strut
Support the lower suspension arm, remove the strut-to-knuckle fasteners and upper mount nuts, then lower the strut assembly out of the wheel well.
Install the replacement strut
Guide the new strut into position and start its upper and lower fasteners by hand. Align the mount correctly and tighten the hardware to vehicle specification.
Reconnect brackets and sway link
Reattach the brake hose and ABS wire brackets, then reconnect the sway link. Confirm the lines have slack through suspension movement and are clear of the tire.
Reinstall trim and wheel
Refit the side bolsters, seat backs, belts, and cushion. Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to specification.
Check suspension and alignment
Inspect the strut mounts and line routing, then arrange a wheel alignment if required by the repair. Test drive cautiously and listen for knocks or rubbing.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.