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2018 Toyota Sequoia
2018 Toyota Sequoia
Limited - V8 5.7L
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2008-2021 Toyota Sequoia Rear Shock and Spring Installation

2008-2021 Toyota Sequoia Rear Shock and Spring Installation

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3 Ton
3 Ton
Floor Jack
3 Ton
3 Ton
Jack Stands
Wheel Chocks
Wheel Chocks
1/2
1/2
Breaker Bar
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Torque Wrench
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How to Replace Front Struts & Rear Shock Absorbers on a 2018 Toyota Sequoia

Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and alignment/torque spec guidance

How to Replace Front Struts & Rear Shock Absorbers on a 2018 Toyota Sequoia

Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and alignment/torque spec guidance

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🔧 Sequoia - Shock Absorber Replacement

On your Sequoia, the rear uses standalone shock absorbers, while the front uses strut assemblies (a shock built into a coilover). The steps, tools, and torque specs are different front vs rear, so I want to aim you at the correct procedure.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 2-6 hours (rear only vs all four)

  • ❓ Are you replacing rear shocks only, front struts only, or all four?
  • ❓ For the front: are you installing complete pre-assembled strut assemblies (recommended), or swapping the shock/strut cartridge into your original spring (requires a spring compressor)?

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

  • ⚠️ Support the truck with jack stands under the frame; never rely on a floor jack.
  • ⚠️ If you’re doing front struts with the original springs, a spring compressor can be dangerous if used incorrectly (the spring stores a lot of energy).
  • ⚠️ Keep hands clear of pinch points when lowering/raising the suspension arm.

🔧 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
  • Breaker bar 1/2"
  • Torque wrench 1/2" drive (30-250 ft-lbs range)
  • Socket set 3/8" drive (10mm-19mm)
  • Socket set 1/2" drive (14mm-22mm)
  • Wrench set (10mm-22mm)
  • Pry bar 18"
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • Paint marker
  • Flat screwdriver
  • Safety glasses
  • Mechanic gloves
  • Coil spring compressor (specialty)

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

  • Rear shock absorbers - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
  • Front complete strut assemblies - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
  • Front strut mount hardware kit - Qty: 1
  • Rear shock mounting hardware kit - Qty: 1

📋 Before You Begin

  • Park on level ground, shift to P, and set the parking brake.
  • Chock the wheels that stay on the ground using wheel chocks.
  • Loosen lug nuts 1/2 turn with a 21mm socket and breaker bar before lifting.
  • Spray shock/strut bolts with penetrating oil and wait 10 minutes.

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Confirm front vs rear procedure

  • Reply with: rear only, front only, or all four.
  • Also tell me if the front is complete strut assemblies or reusing springs (spring compressor).
  • Once you confirm, I’ll give the exact Sequoia procedure with the correct Toyota torque specs for every fastener you’ll touch.

Step 2: What I need from you (no VIN)

  • Tell me if your Sequoia has rear load-leveling/air suspension or standard rear springs (quick check: any “AIR” switch or rear height control).
  • If you’re not sure, send a photo of the rear suspension area (shock and spring) and I’ll identify it.

✅ After Repair

  • Get a 4-wheel alignment after any front strut work.
  • Test drive slowly, listen for clunks, then re-check all visible fasteners for tightness.

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $500-$1,800 (parts + labor, rear only vs all four)

DIY Cost: $200-$900 (parts only)

You Save: $300-$900 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 2-6 hours.


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