GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Notice: Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the coating when handling the suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.

    Important: Lift the vehicle using ONLY a frame-contact vehicle lift. Do NOT lift the vehicle using a suspension-contact vehicle lift.

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  3. Remove the wiper module. Refer to Windshield Wiper System Module Replacement .
  4. Important: Lift the vehicle using ONLY a frame-contact vehicle lift. Do NOT lift the vehicle using a suspension-contact vehicle lift.

  5. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  6. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .

  7. Object Number: 385559  Size: SH
  8. Remove the strut upper nuts.

  9. Object Number: 385558  Size: SH
  10. Scribe the strut to the knuckle.

  11. Object Number: 385564  Size: SH
  12. Remove the strut lower bolts and nuts.
  13. Remove the strut.

Installation Procedure

    Notice: Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the coating when handling the suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.

  1. Install the strut.
  2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 385559  Size: SH
  3. Install the strut upper nuts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the strut upper nuts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).


    Object Number: 385564  Size: SH
  5. Install the strut lower bolts and nuts.
  6. Important: This is a prevailing torque type fastener. This fastener may be reused ONLY if:

       • The fastener and its counterpart are clean and free from rust.
       • The fastener develops 3 N·m (27 lb in) of torque/drag against its counterpart prior to the fastener seating.
    If the fastener does not meet these criteria, REPLACE the fastener.

  7. Align the strut to the mark on the knuckle.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the strut lower nuts to 112 N·m (83 lb ft).

  9. Install the wiper module. Refer to Windshield Wiper System Module Replacement .
  10. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Inspect the alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement .