Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: Strut Assembly Removal and Installation

Special Tools

CH 49375 Strut Rod Nut Socket

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools

Removal Procedure

1. Remove the air inlet grille panel. Refer to Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement.
2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
3. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
4. Remove the stabilizer shaft link from the front strut assembly. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement.



5. Remove the front brake hose (1) from the front strut assembly.
6. Remove the speed sensor wring harness from the front strut assembly, if needed.
7. Remove the outer tie rod end from the steering knuckle. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
8. Support the lower control arm with a jack stand.


9. Remove the front strut nut (1) and the bolt (2) from the front strut.


10. Using the CH 49375 socket  (2) and the proper size Torx® wrench, loosen the front strut nut.



11. Remove the front strut nut (1) and the retaining plate (2).


12. Remove the front strut assembly from the vehicle (1).
13. If removing the front strut assembly to service any of the front strut components, refer to Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement.

Installation Procedure

1. Position the front strut assembly (1)  in the vehicle.


2. Install the front strut nut (1) and the retaining plate (2).



Caution:

Refer to Fastener Caution.

3. Using the CH 49375 socket  (2) and the proper size Torx® wrench to hold the strut shaft, tighten the nut to 65 Y (48 lb ft)

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4. Install the front strut nut (1) and the bolt (2) from the front strut and tighten the nut to 110 Y (82 lb ft)

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5. Install the stabilizer shaft link in the front strut assembly. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement.
6. Remove the jack stand from the lower control arm.
7. Install the outer tie rod end in the steering knuckle. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
8. Install the speed sensor wiring harness on the front strut assembly, if needed.


9. Install the front brake hose (1) on the front strut assembly.
10. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
11. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.
12. Install the air inlet grille panel. Refer to Air Inlet Grille Panel Replacement.