[benecoda]

Hi, I am also not sure of the name of the part I am describing, so if anyone could provide a name or part number that would also be appreciated. It's the rubber boot around the front struts directly between the front wheels. Both of them on my 2010 v6 4wd are shredded and the strut is clearly exposed. The strut itself still looks really good so I'd like to just replace the boot or patch it if anyone is aware of a DIY way to do so. I purchased this car about 3 weeks ago so I'm not sure how it would've happened but I'm not too worried since the strut is still in really good shape.

 

[colobama]

It's called a strut boot or strut bellow. Sells for around $12 online with the bumper included. May be possible to go generic.

To replace it properly you'd have to completely remove the strut from the car and keep the spring tight with a spring compressor.


Or you could try cutting a new boot lengthwise and fitting it over an existing boot, then taping or gluing old and new together. You'd want to cut away the shabby parts of the old boot first, but leave enough of it to secure the new boot to. And also tape together the new boot where you cut it.

 

[Dr. Dyno]

The only way to do it right is as mentioned removing and disassembling the strut. Unless you have the proper spring compressor tools you'd have to pay a shop to do that step. But the parts as also mentioned are inexpensive so I'd recommending doing it.

 

[colobama]

Unless you have the proper spring compressor tools you'd have to pay a shop to do that step.

You can borrow a spring compressor from most auto parts stores, as I did when changing my struts a couple weeks ago. But it's a lot of work just to put a new boot in.

 

[Bigphil555]

It is a shame they do not do the split boots for the struts, like they do for the replacement cv joints.

As said, hire a spring compressor for the job. If you get crud in there, it will compromise the strut performance eventually

 

[Dr. Dyno]

Saying you just need a spring compressor set and actually using them are two different statements in my book. A compressed spring is a dangerous thing that can cause serious injury if something goes wrong. Even with all the ones I've worked with I'm still very careful. I don't handle them any more than necessary and wrap them in a rug until they're safely put back in place.
My advice for a novice is remove the whole strut yourself but pay a pro to install the boots.

 

[Bigphil555]

Sound advice Dr Dyno. I have a hydraulic one that locks everything in place - I would hate to see the aftermath of an uncontrolled release

 

[DL175]

Chances are if the strut boots are bad the struts probably needs to be replaced also. You can't go by looking at it and you don't know what a good strut feels when it was brand new since you bought it used. I used the Monroe 909931 when I had my struts replaced. If you are not diy it is too costly just to replace the strut boots and should wait until you replace the struts.. Replace the struts at the same time if you do the strut boots. If you are keeping this car for a very long time change the strut mounts too.

 

[redrav52]

For those of you whose boots are not cracked, spray them with AT 205 reseal once a year to restore the rubber. I spray it on all my rubber boot and hoses (NOT belts!)