To work on 2004 and newer Lexus models, first loosen and break the wheel lug nuts, jack up the vehicle, and support it with jackstands. Then, remove the wheel and prop up the control arm with a floor jack while you're working. Untangle the strut from the stabilizer bar link, detach the brake hose bracket, and free the wire tube that carries wheel speed data from the strut. Note where the steering knuckle connects to the strut to prevent camber problems, then take out the bolts connecting the strut and knuckle before carefully prying out the remaining bolts with a hammer and small metal rod. Gently pull the strut off the steering knuckle, taking care not to expand the inner CV joint too much and keep the steering knuckle from falling away from the car, to protect the brake hose. To take apart the strut, loosen but don't remove the damper shaft nut. To reach the top of your struts, take away the cowl panels. When replacing your air suspension, disconnect the hose from the strut shaft before taking off the shock absorber cover. Hold the strut and spring assembly while you unscrew the three bolts holding the assembly to the shock tower, then carefully pull the assembly from the fender well. Keep in mind that some cars have a strut brace that can be removed without taking out the struts. Look closely at the strut body for signs of leaking, dings, cracks, and other harm, check the coil spring for paint blisters or cracks, and check the spring seal for break down. Follow this by taking the old strut apart, taking care to replace the entire unit if any problems were found on models with modulated air suspension. Start by putting the strut in its fenderwell position, push the upper mount studs into the shock tower holes, and protect the strut from falling down with the mounting nuts. Put the steering knuckle in the strut flange. Drop bolts through, and snug them tight during that early point in time. Reinstall the brake hose bracket and wheel speed sensor wires, place on the wheel and nuts, lift your car, and put on the nuts. Last, tighten the top mounting nuts and connect any air hose running through the top of the strut before putting on the cap.
Posted by LexusPartsNow Specialist 
