Description
How do you replace a rear strut on a 2006-2013 Chevy Impala? Follow along as we remove the stabilizer link connection, drive out the knurled lower bolts, access the upper mount nuts through the trunk, and fit the replacement strut assembly. We show the rusty old mount, compare the old and new assemblies, align the mounting points, and reconnect the stabilizer link.
This job has some tight clearances and stubborn hardware. We also show a stabilizer-link positioning mistake at the end so you can see what got in our way during installation.
BUY REAR STRUTS FOR CHEVY IMPALA: https://link.amazon/B09GRSsrZ
🧰 TOOLS & FASTENERS MENTIONED
- 15 mm for the stabilizer-link nut and upper mount nuts
- 14 mm / 9/16-inch mentioned for holding the link stud
- 18 mm wrench mentioned at the lower mounting hardware
- 13/16-inch socket and swivel used on the lower nuts; 20 mm is also mentioned in the narration (verify fit—these are not equivalent sizes)
- Ratcheting wrench, deep/shallow 15 mm tools, impact gun, hammer, blunt air-chisel tip and pry bar
- Jack/jack stand and anti-seize mentioned during installation
Safety note: This video documents our repair, not a substitute for vehicle-specific service instructions. Confirm support points, fastener replacement requirements, alignment requirements and torque specifications before starting. Coil springs store hazardous energy; don't loosen the center shaft nut or dismantle a spring/strut assembly without the appropriate equipment and procedure. Heat and impact tools introduce additional hazards. No verified torque specifications are supplied here.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Tools and fastener sizes
0:58 Removing the stabilizer link
1:16 Removing the lower strut nuts
2:06 Driving out the knurled bolts
3:16 Preparing to release the upper mount
3:41 Upper mount nuts inside the trunk
4:26 Removing the old strut
5:15 Comparing old and replacement struts
5:34 Anti-seize and fitting the new strut
6:34 Locating the lower bolt and supporting the strut
7:29 Aligning and securing the upper mount
8:17 Aligning the lower strut bolts
9:46 Seating and tightening the lower fasteners
10:54 Reconnecting the stabilizer link
11:25 Final fastener check
11:49 Avoid this stabilizer-link positioning mistake
❓ FAQ
Q: Where are the upper rear strut fasteners?
A: In this repair, we access the three upper mount nuts from inside the trunk after moving the rubber cover.
Q: Why don't the lower bolts simply slide out?
A: The bolts shown have a knurled section seated in the mounting area. We show how we worked them out rather than treating them as freely turning bolts.
Q: Are the stabilizer links being replaced?
A: No. We disconnect and reuse the link in this video. Inspect yours and follow the applicable service procedure rather than assuming reuse is appropriate.
Q: Do you transfer the spring onto a bare strut?
A: The video shows an assembled replacement strut alongside the old assembly, not a spring-compression or spring-transfer tutorial.
Q: What installation mistake should I watch for?
A: Our link ended up tucked behind the strut. The final section shows the positioning correction and how leaving it hanging to the side would have avoided that obstruction.
Q: What torque values should I use?
A: No verified torque values are stated in this video. Consult the correct service information for your vehicle and replacement parts; don't substitute impact-gun tightening for a specified torque procedure.
💬 Tackling rear struts on your Impala? Which part is giving you trouble—rusted bolts, trunk access or lining up the new assembly? Share your experience or questions below.
Like and subscribe to Homeowner Repair for more DIY repair videos.
#ChevyImpala #StrutReplacement #DIYAutoRepair
Business Inquiries: Send to HomeownerRepair@gmail.com
I review tools and equipment. We are open to collaborating with new ideas and offers too.
Rate cards available upon request.
Disclaimer
Our videos are for entertainment purposes only. It is recommended that you seek advice or help from a qualified professional while attempting any and all repairs.
Do-it-yourself repairs can involve risk and injury, we assume no responsibility or liability for losses, damages, or injuries that include but are not limited to direct, indirect, special, incidental, actual, consequential, or punitive. All repairs performed by our viewers are at your own risk.
While we do review products that we use daily or have even used for years, we also review and test products for companies that have compensated us to try their product out. We are independently owned, the opinions expressed are our own from personal experience while using any and all products.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Recommended products with links may be commission-based when products are purchased from them.