🔧 Tucson - Strut Replacement

Replacing struts means removing the complete front strut assemblies (and/or rear shocks/spring units, depending on location) and installing new ones, then getting an alignment. This restores ride control, braking stability, and prevents uneven tire wear.

Difficulty Level: Advanced | Estimated Time: 3-6 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Coil springs store huge force; use a proper spring compressor or replace complete “quick-strut” assemblies.
• ⚠️ Support your Tucson with jack stands; never rely on a floor jack alone.
• ⚠️ If equipped, do not pull or twist ABS wheel-speed sensor wiring or brake hoses.
• ⚠️ Get a 4-wheel alignment after front strut replacement; handling and tire wear depend on it.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Jack stands (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Wheel chocks
• Safety glasses
• Mechanic gloves
• Breaker bar (1/2-inch drive)
• Torque wrench (20–200 ft-lbs)
• Socket set (8mm–22mm, 1/2-inch drive)
• Wrench set (10mm–22mm)
• Hex key socket set (metric)
• Pry bar
• Hammer
• Needle-nose pliers
• Penetrating oil
• Paint marker
• Spring compressor (external, threaded-rod type) (specialty)

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Front strut assemblies (complete “quick-strut” recommended) - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
• Front upper strut mount/bearing - If not included with quick-strut - Qty: 2
• Front strut dust boot & bump stop kit - If not included - Qty: 2
• Front sway bar link(s) - If worn or seized - Qty: 2
• Rear shock/strut units - If doing rear - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
• Rear upper mount hardware - If required by kit - Qty: 1
• Penetrating oil - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground, steering wheel straight, and set the parking brake.
• Chock the rear wheels if doing the front; chock the front wheels if doing the rear.
• Spray penetrating oil on the lower strut bolts and sway-bar link nuts 10–15 minutes before disassembly.
• Plan for an alignment immediately after front strut replacement.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Before I give the exact, trim-correct steps and torque specs:

• Are we replacing the front struts, the rear, or all four on your Tucson?
• Are you installing complete quick-strut assemblies (preloaded spring) or reusing your springs with a spring compressor?

Quick-struts are safest for first-timers.

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✅ After Repair

• Double-check all fasteners are tightened with a torque wrench.
• Road test at low speed first; listen for clunks over bumps.
• Get a 4-wheel alignment as soon as possible (especially after front struts).
• Recheck lug nut torque after 25–50 miles.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $900-$1,800 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $350-$1,000 (parts only)

You Save: $550-$800 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 3-6 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.