how to tell if my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) struts are worn out

Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

587 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to identify and replace worn struts on your 2013-2019 Toyota Corolla E170. 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 wear safety glasses when working with springs.
•Use a strut spring compressor when handling coil springs to avoid injury.
•Ensure the vehicle is stable on jack stands before working underneath.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving
•Vehicle feels unstable or tips during cornering
•Increased stopping distance or poor braking performance
•Uneven tire wear or cupping on tires
•Noise such as clunking or rattling when driving over bumps
•Fluid leakage from strut assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for any signs of physical damage or fluid leaks.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces before settling.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns by inspecting all tires for signs of cupping or bald spots.
4
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for any unusual noises, such as clunking or rattling.
5
Test the vehicle's handling by making sharp turns and checking for body roll or instability.

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

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor

Parts Required

•New struts (front or rear, as applicable)
•New strut mounts (if worn)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for any signs of physical damage or fluid leaks.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces before settling.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns by inspecting all tires for signs of cupping or bald spots.
4
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for any unusual noises, such as clunking or rattling.
5
Test the vehicle's handling by making sharp turns and checking for body roll or instability.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather required tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, strut spring compressor.

2. Raise the Vehicle

Use the jack to lift the vehicle at the designated lift points.
Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Remove the Wheel

Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts from the wheel.
Take off the wheel and set it aside.

4. Remove the Strut Assembly

Remove any clips or bolts securing the brake line and ABS sensor cable.
Unbolt the strut from the steering knuckle using the appropriate socket.
Unbolt the strut assembly from the top mount under the hood.
Carefully remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.

5. Inspect and Replace

Check the strut for signs of wear, including leaks or physical damage.
If worn, use a strut spring compressor to compress the coil spring safely.
Remove the top mount and replace the strut with a new one.
Reassemble the strut assembly by reversing the disassembly steps.

6. Reinstall the Strut Assembly

Reinstall the strut assembly into the vehicle, securing it with bolts.
Reconnect the brake line and ABS sensor clips.
Reattach the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

7. Lower the Vehicle

Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle.
Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 76 ft-lbs for Toyota).