Removing
1. Apply the parking brake, then raise the front of the vehicle and support it on stands. Remove the corresponding front wheel.
2. Place a jack with a piece of wood under the lower front suspension arm and support the arm while removing the steering knuckle.
3. Remove the two bolts securing the bottom of the shock absorber to the steering knuckle. Unscrew the nut and remove the upper bolt securing the lower part of the shock absorber to the steering knuckle.
4. In the engine compartment, unscrew the nuts securing the upper part of the front strut, then, being careful, 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 sponges.
2. At the top of the A-pillar, unscrew the nut that secures the mounting plate. At the same time, hold the shock absorber rod from turning using a socket wrench.
3. Remove the mounting plate and upper shock mount 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 damping fluid leaks. Check the entire length of the damper rod for pitting. Check the shock absorber housing for mechanical damage. Set the shock absorber to 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 perceptible resistance. If the shock absorber rod moves jerkily or there are mechanical damages, the shock absorber must be replaced.
6. Place the dust cover on the shock absorber and fasten it securely.
7. Install the rubber buffer and upper support on the shock absorber rod.
8. Install the top mounting plate and washer, and thread a new nut onto the damper rod. After securing the shock absorber rod from turning, tighten the mounting plate fastening nut to the required torque.
9. Install the top of the dust cover onto the collar at the base of the top support.
Installation
1. Using an appropriate 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 the new nuts securing the upper shock absorber support.
2. Align the steering knuckle with the shock absorber, while the protrusion of the steering knuckle should be installed in the hole.
3. Insert the upper bolt of the steering knuckle to the shock absorber and screw a new nut onto it. Partially screw in two new bolts securing the lower part of the shock absorber to the steering knuckle. Press the steering knuckle until it is aligned with the shock absorber and in this position tighten the upper shock absorber mounting nut, and then the two lower bolts.
4. Remove the jack supporting the lower front suspension arm, then torque tighten the upper shock mount mounting nuts.