How to Replace Trunk Struts: A Comprehensive DIY Guide

How to Replace Trunk Struts: A Comprehensive DIY Guide

Is your car trunk refusing to stay open, or slamming shut unexpectedly? Are you constantly battling to keep it propped up while loading groceries or luggage? The culprit is likely worn-out trunk struts (also known as lift supports or gas springs). These unassuming components play a crucial role in the smooth and safe operation of your vehicle’s trunk or hatch. Replacing them is a relatively straightforward DIY project that can save you money compared to taking your car to a mechanic.

This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this task yourself.

Why Replace Trunk Struts?

• Safety: A failing trunk strut can cause the trunk lid to fall unexpectedly, posing a risk of injury.
• Convenience: Struggling to hold the trunk open is inconvenient and frustrating, especially when your hands are full.
• Prevent Further Damage: Over time, the strain of a failing strut can damage the hinges or other components of the trunk lid.
• Restore Functionality: Replacing the struts restores the smooth, effortless operation of your trunk or hatch.

When to Replace Trunk Struts

Here are some telltale signs that your trunk struts are nearing the end of their lifespan:

• The trunk lid won’t stay open. This is the most obvious symptom. If the trunk lid slowly descends or slams shut, the struts are no longer providing adequate support.
• The trunk lid is difficult to lift. If you have to exert significant effort to open the trunk, the struts are losing their strength.
• The struts appear damaged or leaking. Inspect the struts for signs of physical damage, such as dents, bends, or leaks.
• The trunk lid makes strange noises when opening or closing. Squeaking, groaning, or popping sounds can indicate worn-out struts.
• Age: Even if you don’t notice any obvious symptoms, it’s a good idea to replace your trunk struts every 5-7 years as a preventative measure.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

• New trunk struts: Purchase the correct struts for your vehicle’s make, model, and year.
• Screwdriver set: You’ll likely need both flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers.
• Socket set or wrenches: The size of the sockets or wrenches you’ll need will vary depending on your vehicle.
• Pry bar or flathead screwdriver: For removing retaining clips.
• Gloves: To protect your hands.
• Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Support rod or wooden broom handle: To hold the trunk lid open during the replacement process.
• Penetrating oil (optional): To loosen any stubborn fasteners.
• Soft cloth or towel: To protect the paint around the mounting points.
• Work light: To illuminate the work area.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Your Tools and Parts: Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and the correct replacement struts. Double-check the part numbers to ensure compatibility with your vehicle.

2. Safety First: Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Open the trunk lid as far as it will go and secure it with a support rod or wooden broom handle. This is crucial to prevent the trunk lid from falling and causing injury or damage.

3. Locate the Trunk Struts: The trunk struts are typically located on either side of the trunk opening, near the hinges. They are usually attached to the trunk lid and the vehicle body with ball-and-socket joints or other types of fasteners.

4. Remove the Old Struts:

   • Identify the Fasteners: Examine the struts to determine how they are attached. Most struts use retaining clips, which need to be disengaged before you can remove the strut.
   • Remove Retaining Clips (if applicable): Use a flathead screwdriver or pry bar to carefully pry the retaining clips away from the ball-and-socket joint. Be gentle to avoid damaging the clips or the surrounding components.
   • Detach the Strut: Once the retaining clips are removed, the strut should easily pop off the ball-and-socket joint. If it’s stuck, try spraying some penetrating oil on the joint and gently wiggling the strut until it comes loose.
   • Repeat on the Other End: Repeat the process to detach the strut from the other mounting point.
   • Remove the Second Strut: Repeat the above steps to remove the second strut on the other side of the trunk.

5. Install the New Struts:

   • Attach the First End: Align the new strut with the ball-and-socket joint on the vehicle body. Press the strut firmly onto the joint until it snaps into place. Ensure that the retaining clip (if applicable) is properly engaged.
   • Attach the Second End: Align the other end of the strut with the ball-and-socket joint on the trunk lid. Press the strut firmly onto the joint until it snaps into place. Ensure that the retaining clip (if applicable) is properly engaged.
   • Repeat on the Other Side: Repeat the process to install the second strut on the other side of the trunk.

6. Test the Trunk Lid:

   • Remove the Support Rod: Carefully remove the support rod or wooden broom handle that was holding the trunk lid open.
   • Open and Close the Trunk Lid: Slowly open and close the trunk lid to test the new struts. The trunk lid should open smoothly and stay open on its own. It should also close without slamming shut.

7. Inspect Your Work:

   • Check the Fasteners: Ensure that all retaining clips are properly engaged and that the struts are securely attached to the mounting points.
   • Look for Leaks: Inspect the struts for any signs of leaks.
   • Listen for Noises: Listen for any unusual noises when opening or closing the trunk lid.

Tips and Tricks

• Work One Strut at a Time: To prevent the trunk lid from becoming misaligned, replace one strut at a time.
• Use a Support Rod: Always use a support rod or wooden broom handle to hold the trunk lid open during the replacement process. This will prevent the trunk lid from falling and causing injury or damage.
• Apply Penetrating Oil: If the fasteners are stuck, apply penetrating oil to loosen them.
• Be Gentle: Avoid using excessive force when removing or installing the struts. This can damage the fasteners or the surrounding components.
• Take Pictures: Before you start, take pictures of the old struts and how they are attached. This will help you remember how to install the new struts.
• Consult a Professional: If you’re not comfortable performing this task yourself, consult a qualified mechanic.

Troubleshooting

• The Trunk Lid Still Won’t Stay Open: Double-check that you have installed the correct struts for your vehicle. Also, make sure that the retaining clips are properly engaged.
• The Trunk Lid is Difficult to Close: This could indicate that the struts are too strong. Make sure you have installed the correct struts for your vehicle.
• The Struts are Leaking: This indicates a defective strut. Contact the manufacturer or retailer for a replacement.

Conclusion

Replacing trunk struts is a relatively simple DIY project that can save you money and improve the safety and convenience of your vehicle. By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you can easily replace your worn-out trunk struts and restore the smooth, effortless operation of your trunk or hatch. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time to ensure that the job is done correctly.