how to replace worn out struts on my Ford F-150 14th Generation (2021-2024)

Ford F-150 14th Generation (2021-2024)

Error Codes

3-5 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

637 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to replace worn out struts on your Ford F-150 (2021-2024). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps, tools required, and safety tips.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

3-5 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle for safety.
•Allow the strut assembly to fully decompress before handling to prevent injury.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving
•Uneven tire wear
•Difficulty maintaining control on rough terrain
•Noisy suspension, especially over bumps
•Increased stopping distance

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect struts visually for signs of leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle; it should rebound once and not continue bouncing.
3
Check the alignment to identify any misalignment that could be caused by worn struts.
4
Inspect surrounding components, such as sway bar links and bushings, for wear or damage.
5
Verify that the struts are the source of the issue by listening for abnormal noises during a test drive over bumps.

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
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor
•Impact wrench
•Pry bar

Parts Required

•Replacement struts (front and/or rear)
•Strut mount kits (if necessary)
•New sway bar link (if worn)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect struts visually for signs of leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle; it should rebound once and not continue bouncing.
3
Check the alignment to identify any misalignment that could be caused by worn struts.
4
Inspect surrounding components, such as sway bar links and bushings, for wear or damage.
5
Verify that the struts are the source of the issue by listening for abnormal noises during a test drive over bumps.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, socket set, torque wrench, strut spring compressor, impact wrench, and pry bar.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the battery.
Gather all tools and replacement parts.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on which struts are being replaced.
Place jack stands under the vehicle to secure it.

3. Remove the Wheel

Use a socket set to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel. Keep the lug nuts for reinstallation.

4. Remove the Strut Assembly

Front Struts:
1. Remove any brake line brackets attached to the strut.
2. Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut using a socket.
3. Remove the lower strut bolts using a socket and impact wrench.
4. Open the hood and remove the upper strut mount bolts located on the strut tower using a socket.
5. Carefully pull the strut assembly out from the wheel well.
Rear Struts:
1. Remove the lower strut bolts using a socket and impact wrench.
2. Remove the upper strut mount bolts from the top of the rear shock tower.
3. Pull the strut assembly out.

5. Install New Struts

Install New Strut Assembly:
1. If necessary, use a strut spring compressor to transfer the spring from the old strut to the new one.
2. Position the new strut into place and secure it by tightening the upper mount bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
3. Reconnect the lower strut bolts and tighten them to the specified torque.
4. Reattach the sway bar link and brake line bracket.

6. Reinstall the Wheel

Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle off the jack stands using the jack and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to the specified torque.

7. Final Checks

Reconnect the battery and perform a test drive to ensure proper function.