How to Remove the Shock Absorber on a Chevrolet Cruze?
2 Answers
The method for removing the shock absorber on a Chevrolet Cruze is as follows: 1. First, loosen the nuts of the four wheels (generally, all four shock absorbers are replaced simultaneously) in a diagonal sequence, but do not fully unscrew them. Then, use a car lift to raise the vehicle—just high enough for the wheels to be slightly off the ground for easier operation. 2. Next, use a socket wrench to fully unscrew the wheel nuts in a diagonal sequence and remove the wheels. Depending on the vehicle model, it may be necessary to detach the brake caliper to access the shock absorber. Then, remove the control arm fixing bolts and loosen the fixing nut of the spring strut arm. 3. Secure the shock absorber arm with a clamp jack, open the engine hood, and loosen the upper body fixing nut of the shock absorber (do not fully unscrew it). Turn the clamp jack to lift the shock absorber arm until the lower end of the shock absorber separates from the front axle. Slowly move the shock absorber away and gradually lower the arm until the shock absorber's elasticity is fully released. Then, completely loosen the upper body fixing nut and remove the shock absorber. 4. After removing the shock absorber, use a spring compressor to secure the spring to prevent it from shifting or popping out when removing the top screws. Disassemble and replace any damaged components or rubber covers of the shock absorber. The shock absorber spring generally does not need replacement unless severely rusted or broken. 5. During reassembly, apply lubricating grease to enhance wear resistance. Fix the upper end of the assembled shock absorber to the car body, but do not fully secure it—just ensure it does not fall. 6. Use a clamp jack to secure the shock absorber arm and lift it to align the lower end with the front axle support. Fasten the lower end of the shock absorber arm to the front axle with bolts and secure the nut of the spring strut arm. Then, tighten the upper body fixing nut of the shock absorber. Follow the same steps to replace the remaining three shock absorbers. 7. After replacing the shock absorbers, loosely tighten the wheel nuts in a diagonal sequence (do not fully tighten them). Lower the vehicle with the lift, then use a wrench to fully tighten the wheel nuts.
I've tried replacing the shock absorbers on a Chevrolet Cruze several times during DIY modifications. First, find a level ground—safety first—use a jack to lift the car and secure it firmly with stands; don’t cut corners. Next, remove the wheels; the Cruze’s lug bolts are easy to loosen with a standard wrench. Then expose the shock absorber, loosen the upper and lower mounting bolts steadily—avoid forcing them to prevent stripping. When removing the old shock absorber, check the springs and bushings for wear—this is a lesson learned. Install the new part in reverse, apply some anti-rust grease, and don’t overtighten—around 25 Nm is sufficient. The whole process takes about an hour or so and isn’t too difficult, but having the right tools is key: jack, wrench, and gloves are essential. After finishing, test-drive for smoothness—saving on repair costs while gaining knowledge.
