2007 Saturn Relay suspension ----struts

HENRYR79

MEMBER
2007 SATURN RELAY
V6
FWD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

I am about to change the struts on this vehicle but I was wanting to know whether I can change out just the strut or should I buy the more expensive strut assembly containing the coil spring? I personally don't feel the need for changing out the coil spring, but would like others opinions. If I change these out either way, do I need a coil spring compressor and would a front end realignment be needed afterwards?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,320 POSTS

If the vehicle is sitting low or sagging, I would recommend the coils too. But, if it isn't, the shock itself should do the trick. As far s the coils, if you only replace the shock, you need to remove the coil. Thus, a spring compressor is needed. If you replace the assembly, there is no need to remove the coil so a compressor isn't needed.

YES, I recommend having the vehicle realigned after the work is done. When you remove the strut, the bottom bolt is used to adjust camber.