how to tell if my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) struts are worn out

Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

523 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and replace worn struts on your 2019-Present Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, tools, and safety tips.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath.
•Use caution when handling strut assemblies as they are under spring tension.

Symptoms

•Increased ride height or sagging at the rear
•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving
•Uneven tire wear
•Difficulty maintaining vehicle control during turns
•Clunking or knocking noises over bumps
•Fluid leaks around the strut assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for any signs of physical damage or fluid leaks.
2
Push down on the front or rear of the vehicle; observe how quickly it rebounds.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns, indicating potential strut issues.
4
Conduct a road test to assess vehicle handling and ride comfort.
5
Inspect the strut mounts and bushings for wear or deterioration.
6
Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the strut assembly.

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

•Floor jack
•Jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor

Parts Required

•New struts
•Strut mounts
•New hardware

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Visually inspect the struts for any signs of physical damage or fluid leaks.
2
Push down on the front or rear of the vehicle; observe how quickly it rebounds.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns, indicating potential strut issues.
4
Conduct a road test to assess vehicle handling and ride comfort.
5
Inspect the strut mounts and bushings for wear or deterioration.
6
Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the strut assembly.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Wear safety gloves and goggles for protection.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a floor jack to lift the vehicle.
Secure it with jack stands to ensure stability.
Remove the wheels for better access to the struts.

3. Remove the Struts

Locate the strut assembly and remove the bolts securing it to the steering knuckle.
Remove the upper mounting bolts inside the engine bay or trunk, depending on the strut location.
Carefully lower the strut assembly from the vehicle.

4. Inspect and Replace

Inspect the old struts for any signs of wear or damage.
Compare with new struts to ensure correct fitment.
Install new struts by reversing the removal process:
- Attach the strut to the steering knuckle and tighten bolts to manufacturer specifications (usually 85-100 ft-lbs, check service manual).
- Reinstall upper mounting bolts ensuring they are torqued to the correct specifications.

5. Reassemble and Lower Vehicle

Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Tighten lug nuts to the manufacturer-recommended torque (typically 100-120 ft-lbs).
Conduct a final inspection of all components and ensure everything is secure.