🔧 Shock Absorbers - Replacement

Assumption: This guide covers the rear shock absorbers on your Equinox. The front suspension uses struts, which is a different repair.

Rear shocks control bounce and keep the tires planted on rough roads. On your Equinox, the shocks bolt in and can be replaced without major disassembly, but rust and tight fasteners can make the job harder.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1.5-3 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Support the vehicle securely with jack stands before removing any wheel.
• Do not work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack.
• Rear suspension parts can be under load; keep hands clear when lowering or raising the axle.
• If fasteners are rusted, use penetrating oil and let it soak before removal.
• No battery disconnect is required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Jack stands (rated for vehicle weight)
• Wheel chocks
• Safety glasses
• Mechanic gloves
• Torque wrench
• 21mm socket
• 18mm socket
• 15mm socket
• 3/8-inch ratchet
• Breaker bar
• Penetrating oil
• Trim clip tool (specialty)

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear shock absorber set - Qty: 2
• Rear shock mounting bolts and nuts - Qty: 1 set

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Chock the front wheels.
• Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts slightly before lifting.
• Spray the upper and lower shock fasteners with penetrating oil.
• Replace shocks in pairs.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Raise and support the rear

• Use a floor jack to lift the rear of the vehicle by the proper lift point.
• Place jack stands under the rear support points and lower the vehicle onto them.
• Remove both rear wheels using a 21mm socket.

Step 2: Support the rear suspension

• Use the floor jack under the rear lower control arm or axle area to lightly support the suspension.
• This keeps the suspension from dropping suddenly when the shock is removed.

Step 3: Remove the lower shock bolt

• Use an 18mm socket and breaker bar to remove the lower shock bolt.
• If the bolt is stuck, apply more penetrating oil and work it back and forth.
• Hold the shock steady by hand.

Step 4: Remove the upper shock fastener

• Access the upper shock mount from the wheel well area.
• Use a 15mm socket to remove the upper shock nut/bolt, depending on the fastener style on your vehicle.
• Pull the shock out of the vehicle once both fasteners are removed.

Step 5: Install the new shock absorber

• Position the new shock in place by hand.
• Install the upper fastener first and leave it loose.
• Align the lower mount and install the lower bolt by hand.
• Use an 18mm socket to snug the lower bolt.
• Use a 15mm socket to snug the upper fastener.

Step 6: Torque the fasteners

• Lower shock bolt: Torque to 110 Nm (81 ft-lbs)
• Upper shock fastener: Torque to 25 Nm (18 ft-lbs)
• Use a torque wrench for both fasteners.

Step 7: Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle

• Reinstall both rear wheels using a 21mm socket.
• Lower the vehicle with the floor jack.
• Torque the lug nuts to 140 Nm (103 ft-lbs) in a star pattern.

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✅ After Repair

• Drive slowly at first and listen for clunks or rattles.
• Check that the vehicle sits level and that both shocks are secure.
• Inspect for any fluid leaks or loose fasteners after the first test drive.
• If ride quality feels uneven, confirm both rear shocks were replaced as a pair.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $450-$900 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $120-$250 (parts only)

You Save: $300-$650 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1.5-3 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.