For 2012 and earlier models, ensure the steering is unlocked before starting the removal process. In the engine compartment, loosen the strut upper mounting nuts but do not remove them. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands, then remove the wheel. Have an assistant depress the brake pedal, then remove the driveaxle/hub nut, but obtain a new one without discarding the old one yet. Remove the brake disc, separate the tie-rod end from the steering knuckle, and detach the stabilizer bar link from the strut. Detach the wheel speed sensor harness from the strut, remove the bolt, and pull the wheel speed sensor from the steering knuckle. Separate the control arm balljoint from the steering knuckle. Using a front wheel hub remover, press the driveaxle from the hub splines, but do not allow the driveaxle to move outward. Remove the upper mounting nuts and remove the strut and steering knuckle as an assembly. Remove the nut and pinch bolt securing the steering knuckle to the strut, then slide the knuckle off the strut.Inspect the shock body for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other damage which would warrant replacement. Check the coil spring for chips or cracks in the spring coating and the spring seat for cuts, hardness, and general deterioration. If any undesirable conditions exist, proceed to the shock absorber/coil spring disassembly procedure.To install, position the steering knuckle onto the strut and install a new strut to steering knuckle nut and pinch bolt, tightening the nut to the correct torque. Guide the assembly up into the fender well, align the previously made matchmarks, and insert the upper mounting studs through the holes in the body. With the driveaxle supported in the level position, guide the shaft into the wheel hub/bearing assembly. Connect the control arm balljoint to the steering knuckle, tightening the balljoint nut to the correct torque. Install the wheel speed sensor and attach the sensor harness to the strut. Connect the stabilizer bar link to the strut, tightening the nut to the correct torque. Connect the tie-rod end to the steering knuckle and tighten the nut to the correct torque. Install the brake discs. Install the old hub nut onto the driveaxle and tighten to the correct torque. Remove the driveaxle/hub nut and install the new one, tightening the nut to the correct torque. Install the wheel and lug nuts, lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque. Tighten the strut upper mounting nuts to the correct torque. Have the front end alignment checked, and if necessary, adjusted.For 2013 and later models, in the engine compartment, mark the relationship of one of the mounting studs to the body, then loosen the four upper mounting nuts. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel. Detach the ABS wheel speed sensor harness from the strut. Support the outer end of the lower control arm with a floor jack. Unscrew the nuts securing the strut to the steering knuckle, then tap the bolts out with a hammer. Use the floor jack to lower the knuckle to allow room to remove the shock absorber/coil spring assembly, but be careful not to overextend the inner CV joint.The inspection procedures are the same as for the 2012 and earlier models.To install, guide the assembly up into the fender well, align the previously made matchmarks, and insert the upper mounting studs through the holes in the body. Use the jack to position the steering knuckle and install the two lower mounting bolts and nuts, then tighten the nuts to the correct torque. Connect the wheel speed sensor harness to the strut. Install the wheel and lug nuts, lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque. Tighten the upper mounting nuts to the correct torque. Have the front end alignment checked, and if necessary, adjusted.
Posted by FordPartsGiant Specialist