It is possible to replace the struts or coil springs individually, but disassembly by a qualified repair shop with the proper equipment will be required, adding considerable cost to the project. You can compare the cost of replacing complete assemblies yourself to the cost of replacing individual components with the help of a shop. To begin removal, loosen the wheel bolts, raise the front of the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands before removing the front wheels, ensuring the vehicle is supported by its frame. Next, remove the wheel speed sensors from the
Steering Knuckle, the brake hose and wire harness bracket from the strut, and detach the stabilizer bar link from the strut. For rear-wheel drive models, remove the strut-to-knuckle fasteners and separate the strut from the steering knuckle, taking care not to let the steering knuckle fall outward to avoid damaging the brake hose and wire harnesses. Pry off the small plastic cap from the piston rod nut, have an assistant hold the strut assembly from below, and then hold the piston rod with an Allen wrench to remove the piston rod nut and rebound stop before taking the assembly out of the fenderwell. For 4MATIC models, remove the brake caliper and secure it aside, mark the relationship of the strut to the knuckle, and remove the strut-to-knuckle nuts, discarding them. Knock the bolts out with a hammer and punch, then separate the strut from the steering knuckle while being cautious not to overextend the inner CV joint. Have an assistant hold the strut assembly from below, remove the three upper mounting bolts in the engine compartment, and take the assembly out of the fender well, ensuring the struts are marked left or right if both are being removed. Inspect the strut body for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other damage, and check the coil spring for chips or cracks in the coating, inspecting the spring seat and other rubber parts for deterioration. If any issues are found, replace the strut assembly or any failed components with the help of a qualified repair shop. For installation in rear-wheel drive models, guide the strut assembly into position with assistance, install the rebound stop and piston-rod nut until finger tight, then attach the strut to the steering knuckle and tighten the fasteners to the specified torque. In 4MATIC models, guide the strut assembly into position, install the upper mounting bolts, and carefully slide the steering knuckle into the strut flange, installing the two bolts and new self-locking nuts while aligning the previously made marks and tightening the nuts to the specified torque. Install the brake caliper, then install the brake hose and wire harness bracket using a new cable tie if necessary. Finally, install the wheels, lower the vehicle, and tighten the wheel bolts to the specified torque, holding the piston rod with an Allen wrench to tighten the piston-rod nut for rear-wheel drive models, and tightening the strut's upper mounting bolts for 4MATIC models. It is advisable to have the front wheel alignment checked and adjusted if necessary.