🔧 MDX - Shock Absorber/Strut Replacement

On your MDX, the front suspension uses struts (shock + spring assembly) and the rear uses shocks (separate from the spring). The steps, parts, and torque specs change a lot depending on whether you’re doing the front, rear, or all four.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 2-6 hours

Two quick questions so I can give you the exact OEM-correct steps and torque specs:

• ❓ Are you replacing front struts, rear shocks, or all four?
• ❓ For the front, are you installing complete strut assemblies (quick-struts) or reusing the springs (requires a spring compressor)?

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Never work under the MDX supported only by a jack; use jack stands on solid ground.
• ⚠️ Suspension parts can release stored energy; if reusing front springs, a spring compressor is required (this tool compresses the coil spring so it can’t “jump”).
• ⚠️ If you disconnect any ABS/brake line brackets, do not let the caliper/knuckle hang by hoses or wires.
• ⚠️ Final tightening of suspension bolts should be done at normal ride height to avoid bushing damage.
• 🔋 Battery disconnect is usually not required for shocks/struts.

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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
• 21mm socket
• 1/2" drive breaker bar
• 1/2" drive torque wrench (20-200 ft-lbs range)
• 3/8" drive ratchet
• 3/8" drive torque wrench (10-80 ft-lbs range)
• Metric socket set (10mm-22mm)
• Metric wrench set (10mm-22mm)
• Pry bar (18"-24")
• Needle-nose pliers
• Flat trim tool
• Paint marker
• Penetrating oil
• Rubber mallet
• Safety glasses
• Mechanic gloves
• Spring compressor (specialty)
• Pass-through strut nut socket set (specialty)

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Front strut assemblies - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
• Rear shock absorbers - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
• Front strut mount kit - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
• Front strut bearing - Replace in pairs - Qty: 2
• Front bump stop and dust boot kit - Qty: 2
• Rear shock mount hardware kit - Qty: 1
• Replacement self-locking nuts/bolts (suspension) - Qty: 1 set

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📋 Before You Begin

• 🅿️ Park on level ground, shift to P, and set the parking brake.
• Use wheel chocks at the wheels staying on the ground.
• Crack the lug nuts loose with a 21mm socket and breaker bar before lifting.
• Spray visible shock/strut fasteners with penetrating oil and wait 10 minutes.
• Plan an alignment after front strut work (recommended anytime struts are removed).

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Confirm which corners you’re replacing

• Please reply: front, rear, or all four.
• Please reply: quick-struts or reuse springs.
• Once you answer, I’ll give the exact OEM-correct removal/installation steps and Torque to XX Nm (YY ft-lbs) specs for each fastener.

Step 2: Do not begin spring disassembly yet (if front)

• If you are reusing springs, do not remove the center strut nut until the spring is compressed with a spring compressor (specialty).
• Spring force can cause severe injury.

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✅ After Repair

• Re-check lug nut torque with a torque wrench after a short test drive.
• Listen for clunks over bumps; a clunk often means a mount/hardware issue.
• Get a 4-wheel alignment if front struts were replaced.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $900-$2,200 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $300-$1,200 (parts only)

You Save: $600-$1,000+ 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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🎯 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.