GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 1998 🢒 Firefly (Canada) 🢒 Suspension 🢒 Rear Suspension 🢒 Strut Assembly Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. On two-door models, raise the liftgate.

    2. On four-door models, open the rear compartment lid.

  2. Raise and support the vehicle just high enough so that both the bottom and the top of the strut (inside the rear compartment) can be accessed at the same time. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  3. Remove the rear tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Removal in Tires and Wheels.
  4. Support the suspension using a floor jack.

    5. Object Number: 177565 Size: SH
  5. Remove the strut-to-knuckle bolt (3).
    6. • On two-door models, remove the trim cover from the strut tower by hand. Place the rear seatback in a forward position.
    • On four-door models, pull the rear interior side trim back enough in order to access the strut nuts.

    Object Number: 177566 Size: SH
  6. Remove the two upper support nuts (2) from the strut (1).
  7. Remove the strut from the vehicle. Use the following procedure:
    8. • Compress the strut by hand.
    • Push up on the bottom of the strut until it clears the suspension knuckle.
    • Remove the strut from the vehicle.

    Object Number: 177567 Size: SH
  8. If the strut (1) is difficult to move, spread the opening in the knuckle (2) by inserting a wedge (3).

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 177569 Size: SH
  1. Compress the strut by hand. Install the strut to the suspension knuckle (2). Position the bottom of the strut alignment projection (1) inside the knuckle opening.

    2. Object Number: 177566 Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  2. Install the two upper support nuts (2) to the strut (1).

    3. Tighten
    Tighten the strut upper support nuts to 30 N·m (24 lb ft).

  3. On two-door models, install the trim cover to the strut tower and return the rear seatback to its upright position.

    4. On four-door models, install the rear compartment interior side trim.


    Object Number: 177565 Size: SH
  4. Install the strut-to-knuckle bolt (3).

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the strut-to-knuckle bolt to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).

  5. Remove the floor jack.
  6. Install the rear tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  7. Lower the vehicle.
  8. On two-door models, close the liftgate.

    9. On four-door models, close the rear compartment lid.