Replacing Shocks: DIY Installation Tips

Many folks take shock absorbers for granted – but these suspension components are critical to how a modern car handles and feels. While working to “absorb” the “shock” your vehicle endures from bumps and vibrations, these small parts also have a big job. Namely, they keep your tires in contact with the ground at all times! That said, if you’re considering replacing shocks and you haven’t done this kind of work before, executing a driveway process ain’t nearly as easy as working through a four-wheel brake change.

While there are a host of DIY video segments floating around the internet, replacing a full set of shocks isn’t quite as simple as the average backyard mechanic would have you believe – especially if you are still building your DIY confidence. There are some sophisticated tools involved and safety concerns definitely apply. Plus, depending on the vehicle, you may need to remove/reinstall the body fascia and/or any mechanical elements that may be in the way.

Still, replacing shocks is not an impossible task. And with a little patience, concentration, and these handy installation tips, you can tackle this maintenance job and add another skill to your mechanical arsenal.

Before we dig into some installation tips, it’s worth getting a better understanding of the important role shocks play in your vehicle. While their operation may be straightforward, the internal breakdown of these components is pretty intricate. Find out more from the experts at Monroe in this helpful video:

A Quick Note on Shock Absorbers

The first step to any clean install is selecting the right part. We’ve already established shock absorbers are an important suspension component on your ride, which means you shouldn’t be cutting corners with bargain-bin options. Nor should you be plucking any old part off the shelf, simply because it matches your vehicle application and has a recognizable brand label on it.

Consider what type of driving you generally do and balance that against your budget. Are you hitting the trails every weekend with your dedicated off-roader? Or does that vehicle also take you to work M-F via highways? Are you looking to improve comfort? Return an aging rig to stock ride quality? Keep your tow vehicle steady? Or ramp up performance to accommodate your lead foot? These are a few questions worth sorting out before replacing shocks.

Most shock manufacturers can help you sort through the many different options on the market. For example, Monroe breaks down its online product offerings in this very way, encouraging you to decide whether you want to restore your ride, versus extending or improving it.

While there are several pure performance and next-generation designs in today’s market, in general, today’s OEM shock variants come in two flavors:

• Mono-Tube – These components are comprised of a single, large-diameter, tube housing two ‘stacked’ active pistons. The first section in the tube is referred to as the dividing piston, and the second section is referred to as the working piston.
• Twin-Tube – These components are characterized by a ‘tube in a tube’ configuration. The outer, larger, tube is referred to as the reserve tube. The smaller diameter tube is called the pressure tube.

Did you know…?

If one shock or strut needs replacing, chances are its companion across the same axle (front or rear) is also shot. For this reason, you should always replace shocks in pairs. Additionally, while it will cost more money upfront, it’s wise to replace all four shocks at the same time if you can to ensure the entire suspension is dialed in and handling properly.

Shock Replacement Tools (and Tips)

Here are a few safety and work tips to keep in mind when replacing shocks. While the work itself isn’t particularly difficult, there are necessary tools and accessories (and some important boxes to check when using them) if you want the job done effectively. Sale and rental options are available for these parts from most reputable aftermarket tool/parts sellers.

• Hydraulic Jack
  This is a biggie. DO NOT attempt to replace shocks using a simple OEM jack system. The jack that came with your ride is designed to support one corner of the vehicle long enough to change out a flat tire on the side of the road. That’s about it. Play it safe and get a reliable hydraulic jack.

• Jack Stands/Wheel Ramps
  Jacks are built to lift your vehicle, not hold it. And indeed, when left under constant pressure can fail. Always use jack stands when lifting a vehicle. Furthermore, any time you lift a vehicle, make sure you’ve properly pinned each jack stand. Also, remember to double-check the placement of any stand before you gently release the jack, so the vehicle can settle down on the stand.

• Set Of Wheel Chocks
  Wheel Chocks are simple but necessary elements when working on a driveway process. Always ensure that anytime you lift a vehicle, place chocks in the proper location to stabilize the vehicle.

• Full Ratchet/Socket Set
  Consider purchasing or renting a cordless power ratchet to save time as well as wear on your hands and back.

• Torque Wrench
  Be sure to consult the vehicle’s OEM specs relating to torque values. If they are not readily available, consult the branded vehicle’s web platform, aftermarket parts store, or local service/dealer location.

• Knee Pads
  Your joints will thank you for this one.

• Spray Penetrating Oil

• Spray Metal Cleaner

• Paper or Microfiber Shop Towels

Once you have all your tools and accessories collected…

Take a beat before you begin the shock removal/replacement process. Consider what you are about to do. For example, are you doing just front, or rear shocks, or all way ‘round?

This pause will help you gain a sense of how long the process “should” take. Typically, ASE mechanics can do one side, (i.e., front/rear shocks) in 1.5-3 hrs. The time difference relates to the particular Year/Make/Model, and the type of suspension system involved.

Another good tip is to keep track of your steps while replacing the shocks. This can be in the form of pictures on your phone or as a written-out list of steps as you do them. The exercise will keep things orderly, and also force you to think about you’re doing. (Plus, if you are distracted in the middle of the build/rebuild you’ll be able to get reoriented without having a problem.)

Replacing Shocks – A Quick Overview

Now that you have the proper tools and setup, you can dig into replacing those shocks. Please note, this is a general overview. If you’re new to the process, it’s wise to watch a few video tutorials first (this one and this one are solid), or check out a detailed breakdown with photos and step-by-step instructions (like this).

Did you know…?

Most shocks and struts are designed to function in a vertical, up and down position. However, before they are installed, they are generally stored on their side. This can cause the gas charging to mix with the hydraulic fluid, making the unit appear defective. Priming the shock or strut before installation easily solves this problem. Learn how to prime shocks to ensure optimal performance in the Monroe video below.

When ready to replace the shocks:

• Put the vehicle in Park (if an automatic gearbox), or In-Gear (if a manual gearbox). Set the parking brake.

• Chock the wheels.

• Lift the required area of the vehicle, i.e., front/rear.

• Install either jack stands, or wheel ramps under the target location.

• Release and remove the wheels/tires.

• Identify the top/bottom of the shock mounts.

• Using spray cleaner, cover all areas where dirt or grit appears.

• Wipe the areas clean as required.

• Remove effected top/bottom bolts from shock towers.

• Once the bolts are free, remove the shock from the tower assembly.
  *Working Tip: Bear in mind, depending on the vehicle, you may need to disengage the control arm knuckle adjacent to the component assembly, in order to remove the shock itself.

• Assuming that you properly mapped out the process, installing the new shock should exist as a reverse process.

Monroe Products – Built Different

Monroe is one of the global automotive industry’s best known and most trusted brands. The company has been delivering innovative OE and aftermarket ride control solutions for more than 100 years. Monroe is the technician’s most preferred shocks and struts brand, as the company conscientiously designs and rigorously tests each and every product to strict performance and durability standards specific to vehicle ride and handling profiles. Visit www.monroe.com for additional installation tips and technical resources.