Removal
1. Apply the parking brake, then raise the front of the vehicle and secure it on stands. Remove the affected front wheel.
2. Place a jack with a wooden block under the lower control arm of the front suspension and support the arm while removing the steering knuckle.
3. Remove the two bolts securing the lower shock absorber to the steering knuckle. Remove the nut and the upper bolt securing the lower shock absorber to the steering knuckle.
4. In the engine compartment, unscrew the nuts securing the upper part of the front strut, then carefully remove the strut from under the wing arch.
Repair
1. Clean the front suspension strut from dirt and secure it in a vice with soft jaws.
2. At the top of the front strut, unscrew the nut securing the mounting plate while holding the shock absorber rod from turning using a socket wrench.
3. Remove the mounting plate and upper shock absorber support from the strut.
4. Remove the rubber buffer from the shock absorber rod, then release the mount and remove the dust cover from the shock absorber.
5. Check the shock absorber for signs of shock absorber fluid leaks. Check the entire length of the shock absorber rod for pitting. Check the shock absorber body for mechanical damage. Set the shock absorber in a vertical position and check its operation by moving the shock absorber rod through its full stroke. Also check the operation of the shock absorber by moving the shock absorber rod up and down a distance of 50 - 100 mm. In all cases, the shock absorber rod should move smoothly with noticeable resistance. If the shock absorber rod moves jerkily or there is mechanical damage, the shock absorber must be replaced.
6. Install the dust cover on the shock absorber and fasten it securely.
7. Install the rubber buffer and upper support onto the shock absorber rod.
8. Install the upper mounting plate and washer and screw a new nut onto the shock absorber rod. After securing the shock absorber rod from turning, tighten the mounting plate nut to the specified torque.
9. Place the top of the dust cover onto the flange at the base of the upper support.
Installation
1. Using a suitable tap, clean the threaded holes in the steering knuckle for the lower shock absorber mounting bolts. Install the shock absorber in place and screw on new upper shock absorber mount mounting nuts.
2. Align the steering knuckle with the shock absorber, making sure that the protrusion of the steering knuckle fits into the hole.
3. Insert the upper bolt securing the steering knuckle to the shock absorber and screw a new nut onto it. Partially screw in the two new bolts securing the lower part of the shock absorber to the steering knuckle. Press the steering knuckle so that it aligns with the shock absorber and in this position tighten the upper nut securing the shock absorber and then the two lower bolts.
4. Remove the jack supporting the lower arm of the front suspension, then tighten the upper shock absorber mount nuts to the specified torque.