how to tell if my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) struts are worn out

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

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

556 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace worn struts on your Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and tools required.

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.
•Wear safety goggles when using a spring compressor.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during acceleration or braking
•Uneven tire wear across the tread
•A noticeable decrease in ride comfort and stability
•A clunking noise when driving over bumps
•Leaking fluid around the strut assembly
•Vehicle dips or sways when making turns

Diagnostic Steps

1
Conduct a visual inspection of the struts for any signs of leakage or physical damage.
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 tire wear patterns for unevenness, which may indicate strut issues.
4
Listen for any unusual noises when driving over bumps or during turns.
5
Inspect the strut mounts for wear or damage.

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 and jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor
•Impact wrench (optional)

Parts Required

•New strut assemblies (front and/or rear)
•New strut mounts (if needed)

Related Faults

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Conduct a visual inspection of the struts for any signs of leakage or physical damage.
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 tire wear patterns for unevenness, which may indicate strut issues.
4
Listen for any unusual noises when driving over bumps or during turns.
5
Inspect the strut mounts for wear or damage.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, socket set, torque wrench, strut spring compressor, impact wrench (optional)
Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
Remove the wheel to access the strut assembly.

2. Remove Strut Assembly

Use a socket set to remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
Disconnect any brake lines or sensors attached to the strut if necessary.
Remove the top mounting bolts from the strut tower using a socket set.
Carefully take out the strut assembly from the vehicle.

3. Inspect and Replace Struts

Use a strut spring compressor to safely compress the coil spring on the strut assembly.
Remove the top nut of the strut to free the coil spring from the assembly.
Inspect the strut for any signs of wear or damage, such as leaking fluid or bent components.
Replace with a new strut if wear is present. Reassemble the coil spring onto the new strut using the spring compressor.

4. Reinstall Strut Assembly

Position the new strut assembly back into the strut tower and secure it with the top mounting bolts.
Reattach the strut to the steering knuckle and tighten the bolts to manufacturer specifications using a torque wrench.
Reconnect any brake lines or sensors that were disconnected.

5. Reassembly

Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Torque the wheel lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.