how to tell if my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) struts are worn out?

Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

588 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to identify worn struts in your 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide for suspension issues.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a lifted vehicle.
•Allow the vehicle to cool down if recently driven before starting work.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying of the vehicle when driving over bumps
•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges
•Difficulty in steering or a loose steering feel
•Increased stopping distance or poor braking performance
•Noise from the suspension, such as clunking or rattling sounds
•Vehicle leaning excessively during cornering or turns

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for visible signs of damage, such as leaking fluid around the strut assembly.
2
Push down hard on the front or rear of the vehicle and then release; observe how many times the vehicle bounces before settling.
3
Examine tires for uneven wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over various surfaces and note any unusual handling or noise.
5
Have a professional inspect the alignment, as misalignment can indicate strut wear.
6
Pay attention to any clunks, rattles, or knocking sounds from the suspension while driving.

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

•Replacement struts
•New strut mounting hardware

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Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying of the vehicle when driving over bumps

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

•Difficulty in steering or a loose steering feel

•Increased stopping distance or poor braking performance

•Noise from the suspension, such as clunking or rattling sounds

•Vehicle leaning excessively during cornering or turns

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for visible signs of damage, such as leaking fluid around the strut assembly.
2
Push down hard on the front or rear of the vehicle and then release; observe how many times the vehicle bounces before settling.
3
Examine tires for uneven wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over various surfaces and note any unusual handling or noise.
5
Have a professional inspect the alignment, as misalignment can indicate strut wear.
6
Pay attention to any clunks, rattles, or knocking sounds from the suspension while driving.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, strut spring compressor (if replacing struts).
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the wheel using a lug wrench.

3. Remove the Strut Assembly

Unbolt the strut: Locate the strut mounting bolts at the top and bottom of the strut assembly and remove them using a socket set.
Disconnect any connected components: Detach brake lines, sway bar links, or any other components that may obstruct strut removal.
Carefully pull the strut assembly out from the wheel well.

4. Inspect the Strut Assembly

Check the strut for signs of wear, such as leaks or corrosion. If damaged, proceed with replacement.

5. Install New Struts (if necessary)

Use a strut spring compressor: Compress the coil spring and remove the top nut to detach the spring from the strut.
Replace the old strut with the new one, ensuring proper alignment of mounting holes.
Reattach the spring and tighten the top nut as per manufacturer specifications.

6. Reassemble and Lower the Vehicle

Bolt the strut assembly back into place and reconnect any components that were removed.
Reattach the wheel and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque value.