how to tell if my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) struts are worn out?

Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

630 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace worn struts on a 2019 Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Disconnect the battery if working on electronic components to prevent shorts.

Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes
•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges
•Poor handling or increased body roll during turns
•Noise such as clunking or knocking when driving over rough surfaces
•Vehicle squats or dives during acceleration or braking
•Visible leakage of hydraulic fluid from the strut assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visual Inspection: Examine the struts for signs of physical damage or oil leakage.
2
Bounce Test: Push down on the front or rear of the vehicle and release; the vehicle should rebound once and settle back.
3
Tire Inspection: Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Road Test: Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for unusual noises or feel for excessive bouncing.
5
Alignment Check: Perform a wheel alignment to see if misalignment could be affecting strut performance.
6
Look for Warning Signs: Check for dashboard warning lights that may indicate suspension issues.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Jack stands
•Floor jack
•Impact wrench

Parts Required

•New strut assemblies
•Strut mounts
•Additional hardware

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Symptoms

•Vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes

•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges

•Poor handling or increased body roll during turns

•Noise such as clunking or knocking when driving over rough surfaces

•Vehicle squats or dives during acceleration or braking

•Visible leakage of hydraulic fluid from the strut assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visual Inspection: Examine the struts for signs of physical damage or oil leakage.
2
Bounce Test: Push down on the front or rear of the vehicle and release; the vehicle should rebound once and settle back.
3
Tire Inspection: Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Road Test: Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for unusual noises or feel for excessive bouncing.
5
Alignment Check: Perform a wheel alignment to see if misalignment could be affecting strut performance.
6
Look for Warning Signs: Check for dashboard warning lights that may indicate suspension issues.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather Tools and Parts:
- Tools: Socket set, torque wrench, jack stands, floor jack, impact wrench.
- Parts: New strut assemblies (if replacement is needed), strut mounts, and any additional hardware.
Safety Precautions:
- Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface.
- Set the parking brake and wear safety glasses.

2. Jack Up the Vehicle

Use the floor jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands for safety.
Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.

3. Remove the Old Struts

Front Struts:
- Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
- Disconnect the brake line bracket from the strut.
- Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
- Remove the top strut mounting nuts from the engine bay.
- Carefully pull out the strut assembly.
Rear Struts:
- Remove the rear wheel and tire assembly.
- Disconnect the sway bar link (if applicable).
- Remove the lower strut bolts.
- Remove the top mounting nuts from the trunk area and extract the strut.

4. Install New Struts

Front Struts:
- Position the new strut into place and secure the top mount with nuts.
- Attach the strut to the steering knuckle and torque the bolts to manufacturer specifications.
- Reconnect the brake line bracket.
Rear Struts:
- Insert the new strut into position and secure the top mount with nuts.
- Attach the lower strut bolts and torque them to specifications.
- Reconnect the sway bar link.

5. Reassemble and Lower Vehicle

Reinstall the wheel and tire assemblies.
Lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Torque the wheel lug nuts to the appropriate specification.

6. Final Checks

Perform a wheel alignment to ensure proper handling.
Test drive the vehicle to confirm strut performance.