how to tell if my GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) struts are worn out?

GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

574 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace worn struts on your 2019-Present GMC Sierra T1XX. 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 use jack stands when working under a lifted vehicle.
•Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface to prevent rolling.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying of the vehicle during driving
•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges
•Difficulty in maintaining control during cornering or sudden maneuvers
•Increased stopping distances or nose-diving during braking
•Visible oil leaks on the struts or around the strut mount
•Clunking or knocking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts and surrounding components for signs of oil leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Inspect the strut mounts for signs of wear or damage.
5
Drive the vehicle at various speeds over bumps and listen for any unusual noises.
6
Use a measuring tape to check the ride height from the ground to the wheel arch and compare it to manufacturer specifications.

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
•Wheel chocks

Parts Required

•New strut assemblies (front and/or rear as needed)
•Strut mount kits (if applicable)

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Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying of the vehicle during driving

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

•Difficulty in maintaining control during cornering or sudden maneuvers

•Increased stopping distances or nose-diving during braking

•Visible oil leaks on the struts or around the strut mount

•Clunking or knocking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts and surrounding components for signs of oil leakage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how many times it bounces.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns that may indicate strut issues.
4
Inspect the strut mounts for signs of wear or damage.
5
Drive the vehicle at various speeds over bumps and listen for any unusual noises.
6
Use a measuring tape to check the ride height from the ground to the wheel arch and compare it to manufacturer specifications.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and safety equipment.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off.
Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a hydraulic jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle.
Secure the vehicle on jack stands for safety.

3. Remove the Struts

Front Struts:
- Remove the wheel using a socket set.
- Unbolt the strut assembly from the steering knuckle.
- Disconnect any connected components such as brake lines or sway bar links.
- Remove the top strut mount bolts from the engine bay.
- Carefully extract the strut assembly from the vehicle.
Rear Struts:
- Remove the rear wheel.
- Unbolt the lower strut mount from the axle.
- Remove the top strut mount bolts from the vehicle body.
- Extract the strut assembly.

4. Inspect and Replace

Inspect the struts for signs of damage or excessive wear.
If worn, replace with new struts:
- Install the new strut assembly in reverse order of removal.
- Torque the strut mount bolts to manufacturer specifications (usually around 30-40 lb-ft).

5. Reassemble and Lower Vehicle

Reattach any disconnected components (brake lines, sway bar links).
Reinstall the wheels and torque the lug nuts to manufacturer specifications.
Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground.