how to identify if my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) needs new struts or shocks

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Error Codes

3-5 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

627 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to identify and replace struts or shocks on your Ford F-150 13th Generation. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

3-5 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands to support the vehicle when working underneath it.
•Allow the vehicle to cool down if it has been driven recently before working on the suspension components.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving
•Uneven tire wear
•Nose diving during braking
•Difficulty maintaining vehicle control on rough roads
•Visible fluid leakage from struts or shocks
•Increased road noise or harsh ride quality

Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it rebounds.
2
Inspect the struts and shocks visually for signs of wear, such as rust, corrosion, or oil leakage.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate suspension issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over a series of bumps and listen for any unusual noises, such as knocking or clunking.
5
Measure the height of the vehicle at all four corners to see if there are significant differences indicating sagging.
6
Test the brakes to see if the front end dives excessively when braking, indicating worn struts.

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

•Hydraulic jack
•Jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Wrench set
•Screwdrivers

Parts Required

•New struts (if replacing struts)
•New shocks (if replacing shocks)
•New sway bar links (if necessary)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it rebounds.
2
Inspect the struts and shocks visually for signs of wear, such as rust, corrosion, or oil leakage.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate suspension issues.
4
Drive the vehicle over a series of bumps and listen for any unusual noises, such as knocking or clunking.
5
Measure the height of the vehicle at all four corners to see if there are significant differences indicating sagging.
6
Test the brakes to see if the front end dives excessively when braking, indicating worn struts.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts required for replacement.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues during the process.

2. Lift the Vehicle

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

3. Remove the Old Struts/Shocks

For Struts:
- Remove the wheel to access the strut assembly.
- Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut.
- Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
- Unbolt the upper strut mount from the vehicle.
- Carefully remove the strut from the vehicle.
For Shocks:
- Remove the wheel to access the shock absorber.
- Unbolt the lower mounting bolt of the shock.
- Remove the upper mounting bolts from the shock tower.
- Take out the shock absorber.

4. Install New Struts/Shocks

For Struts:
- Position the new strut in place and secure the upper mount using the manufacturer-recommended torque specifications.
- Reconnect the strut to the steering knuckle and secure with bolts, ensuring they are torqued to specification.
- Reattach the sway bar link.
For Shocks:
- Position the new shock absorber and secure the upper mount first.
- Then secure the lower mounting bolt, ensuring it is torqued to the specified value.

5. Final Reassembly

Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Reconnect the battery once all components are securely in place.
Perform a final check to ensure all bolts are tightened to specifications.