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How to Change the Struts on a 1990 Lexus ES 250

The Lexus ES 250 was the companys first entry-level luxury car. To keep costs down, the ES 250 was based on the Toyota Camry, but with a nicer interior and more sound-deadening material. To ensure that the ride was comfortable and luxurious, the Lexus ES was equipped with fully independent suspension, front and back. This was notable because most manufactures would only spring for front independent suspension and use a torsion bar setup in the rear. The struts provide the cushioning in an independent suspension setup; however, they can wear out over time and need to be replaced.

Instructions

1

Drive the Lexus ES 250 to a flat piece of pavement --- your garage is best if there is ample room to either side for the removal of the wheels. Place the car into "Park" and engage the parking brake. Turn the sedan off and empty the car out --- the additional weight will make the jacking up that much harder.

2

Jack the car up by sliding the car jack under the jack point, then raising that corner up. Slide in a jack stand when that corner is elevated, then go on to the next corner. Jack the car up enough so that the wheels are no longer in contact with the ground. Use the tire iron that came with the Lexus to remove the lug nuts from each of the wheels, then pull the wheels off by hand and roll them out of the way.

3

Locate the antilock sensor on the strut --- its the only thing connected by an electrical wire to the car. Unplug the sensor, then unbolt the sway bar on the bottom of the strut. Caully lower the sway bar to the ground to avoid deforming it. The sway bar relies on its straightness to transfer kinetic energy from one corner to the other. Unbolt the two bolts that secure the bottom of the strut. On the front wheels, the strut is bolted to the steering knuckle; on the back wheels, the strut is bolted to the bottom control arms. Unbolt the two bolts on the top of the strut, then pull the strut out by hand.

4

Bolt in the new strut by first bolting in the bottom two bolts. Then slide in the two top bolts and wrench them down flush. Plug the antilock sensor in the struts, then bolt in the strut on the other side of the car. Both the left and right strut must be installed before the sway bar is bolted in or else the sides will be uneven and you will have to force them into place while bolting. Repeat this process for all the corners.

5

Bolt in the tires back onto the axles, then lower the car off the jack stands. Make sure all the corners are level, then take the car for a test drive.

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