Chevrolet Cruze Repair Manual: Strut Assembly Replacement
Special Tools
CH 49375 Wrench
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.
Removal Procedure
- Raise and the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
- Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and
Installation.

- Separate the brake hose (1) from the shock absorber.

- Remove the steering knuckle nuts and bolts (1).

- Remove the stabilizer shaft link nut (1) from the front strut.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Open the hood.

- Remove the upper strut mount nut (1), use the CH 49375 wrench .
- Remove the strut mounting plate (2).
- Separate the front strut from the knuckle.
- Remove the front strut assembly from the vehicle.
- For servicing the individual strut components, refer to Strut, Strut
Component, or Spring Replacement.
Installation Procedure
- Install the front strut assembly.
Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

- Install the strut mounting plate (2).
- Install the upper strut mount nut (1), using the CH 49375 wrench and
tighten to 45 N·m (34 lb ft).

- Insert the front strut in the knuckle.
- Install the steering knuckle nuts and bolts (1) and tighten to 90 N·m
(66 lb ft) +60-70 degrees.

Install the stabilizer shaft link nut (1) and tighten to 65 N·m (48 lb
ft).

- Install the brake hose (1) to the strut.
- Install the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel
Removal and Installation.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Check the front end alignment specifications. Refer to Wheel Alignment
Specifications.
Special Tools
CH-43631 Ball Joint Remover
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.
Removal Procedure
Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and
Jacking ...
Warning: Use the proper eye protection when drilling to prevent
metal chips from causing physical injury.
Clamp the strut in a vise horizontally with the rod ( 1) completely
extended.
D ...
Other materials:
Safety System Check
Now and then, check that the safety belt reminder light, safety belts, buckles,
latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are all working properly.
Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts that might keep
a safety belt system from doing its job. See your dealer to have it rep ...
Installation Procedure
Drill 8 mm (5/16 in) for plug welding along the edges of the front
compartment upper side rail as noted from the original panel.
Clean and prepare the attaching surfaces for welding.
Position the front compartment upper side rail on the vehicle.
Verify the fit of the fr ...
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the scheduled maintenance intervals and replace
it at the first oil change after each 80 000 km (50,000 mi) interval. If you are
driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change.
How ...