Removal And Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mercury Mariner and 2008 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure may result in major service expense. New parts must be installed with the same part numbers or equivalent part, if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure correct retention of these parts.

Remove the rear quarter trim panel. For additional information, refer to INTERIOR TRIM AND ORNAMENTATION article.
Remove the wheel and tire. For additional information, refer to WHEELS AND TIRES article.
Using a suitable jackstand, support the rear suspension.
Remove and discard the upper shock absorber nut and bushing assembly.
- To install, tighten the new nut and bushing assembly to 40 Nm (30 lb-ft).
Remove and discard the lower shock absorber nut, washer and bolt.
- To install, tighten the new nut to 175 Nm (129 lb-ft).
Remove the shock absorber.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.