how to tell if my struts are bad on my Toyota Camry XV50 (2012-2017)

Toyota Camry XV80 (2025-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

478 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix bad struts on your 2012-2017 Toyota Camry XV50. 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 to support the vehicle when working underneath it.
•Ensure the vehicle is on a stable surface to prevent tipping.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes
•Uneven tire wear, especially on the inner or outer edges
•Difficulty maintaining vehicle stability during turns
•A noticeable decrease in ride comfort, feeling harsh or jarring over small bumps
•Fluid leakage around the strut assembly
•Noise such as clunking or knocking when driving over uneven surfaces

Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a visual inspection of the struts for any signs of damage or leakage.
2
Conduct a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how quickly it returns to its original position.
3
Check tire tread wear patterns for irregularities that may indicate strut issues.
4
Inspect the mounting points and bushings for any signs of wear or damage.
5
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for any unusual noises coming from the suspension.

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

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Jack and jack stands
•Wrench set
•Strut spring compressor

Parts Required

•Replacement struts
•Sway bar links
•Mounting hardware

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Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes

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

•Difficulty maintaining vehicle stability during turns

•A noticeable decrease in ride comfort, feeling harsh or jarring over small bumps

•Fluid leakage around the strut assembly

•Noise such as clunking or knocking when driving over uneven surfaces

Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a visual inspection of the struts for any signs of damage or leakage.
2
Conduct a bounce test by pushing down on each corner of the vehicle and observing how quickly it returns to its original position.
3
Check tire tread wear patterns for irregularities that may indicate strut issues.
4
Inspect the mounting points and bushings for any signs of wear or damage.
5
Drive the vehicle over bumps and listen for any unusual noises coming from the suspension.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and securely jack up the car.
Use jack stands to support the vehicle safely.

2. Remove the Wheel

Loosen the lug nuts before lifting the vehicle.
Remove the wheel using a socket wrench.

3. Remove the Strut Assembly

Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut if applicable.
Remove any bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
Locate the strut mounting nuts at the top of the strut tower; remove these nuts.
Carefully lower the strut assembly out of the vehicle.

4. Inspect and Replace

Check the condition of the strut assembly for leaks or physical damage.
If the strut is bad, replace it with a new or refurbished strut, ensuring it matches OEM specifications.
Reassemble the strut by reversing the removal steps, ensuring all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.

5. Reinstall the Wheel

Place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle back to the ground and torque the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to the specified value.

6. Final Inspection

Recheck the installation of all components and ensure everything is secure.
Test the vehicle for proper handling and ride comfort.

Tools Required:

Socket set
Torque wrench
Jack and jack stands
Wrench set
Strut spring compressor (if replacing springs)

Parts Required:

Replacement struts (front and/or rear as needed)
Sway bar links (if worn)
Mounting hardware (if rusted or damaged)

Estimated Repair Time: 2-4 hours

Safety Warnings:

Always use jack stands to support the vehicle when working underneath it.
Ensure the vehicle is on a stable surface to prevent tipping.