GM 19258496 Shock Absorber

To remove the shock absorber, start by loosening the rear wheel lug nuts and raising the rear of the vehicle on jackstands. Remove the wheel and disconnect the air line at the shock absorber. Support the lower control arm with a floor jack and, if equipped with road-sensing suspension, disconnect the electrical connector from the shock absorber. Depending on the model, remove the nut and bolt or two bolts securing the shock absorber to the control arm. For a 1999 DeVille, also remove the upper mounting nut, retainer, and insulator. For a 2000 or later DeVille or a 1999 or later Seville, open the trunk, pull back the carpet, remove the dust cover, and unscrew the upper mounting nuts. For a later model Seville, open the trunk, pull back the carpet, and disconnect the road-sensing suspension harness connector from the shock absorber. Finally, remove the shock absorber. To install, follow the reverse of the removal steps, ensuring to tighten the mounting fasteners to the specified torque and allowing the Electronic Level Control system to pressurize before lowering the vehicle and tightening the lug nuts.

Remove the wheel and mark the relationship of the strut to the steering knuckle. Remove the brake hose bracket and ABS wiring harness bracket from the strut. Remove the strut-to-knuckle nuts and knock the bolts out with a soft-face hammer. On 1999 models, disconnect the stabilizer bar link from the strut. Separate the strut from the steering knuckle, being careful not to overextend the inner CV joint or stretch the brake hose. If equipped, unplug the electrical connector from the strut. Have an assistant support the strut assembly and remove the three strut upper mounting nuts or bolts. Remove the assembly through the fender well.

Consider options like rebuilt or new strut assemblies that may be available on an exchange basis.

Inspect the driveaxle boots for tears, cracks, and loose clamps, replacing them if any damage or leaking lubricant is found.