How to replace hood struts on Ford Explorer?

Replacing Hood Struts on Ford Explorer
If you need to replace the hood struts on your Ford Explorer, the process is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Gather the Necessary Tools: Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools for the job. This may include a flat blade screwdriver and replacement hood struts.
2. Safety Precautions: Ensure that the hood is safely propped up with an external object, such as a strong piece of pipe, to prevent it from falling while you work on the struts.
3. Removing the Old Struts: Use a flat blade screwdriver to pry out on the retainer on the back of the hood strut. Once the retainer is removed, you can then detach the old struts from the vehicle.
4. Installing the New Struts: Align the new struts with the mounting points on the vehicle and attach them securely. It’s recommended to replace both struts at the same time for even support.
5. Testing: After the new struts are installed, test the hood to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly and stays in the raised position when unlatched.
6. Additional Resources: If you prefer visual guidance, there are helpful videos available on platforms like YouTube that demonstrate the process of replacing hood struts on Ford Explorer vehicles.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully replace the hood struts on your Ford Explorer. If you have any specific questions about the process or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

How long do hood struts last?

Based on our experience, the only drawback to hood struts is they will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. How long they last will depend on the quality and how often you use them. Most vehicles that come stock with hood struts recommend replacing them every 5 years or 60,000 miles.

Should I replace my struts myself?

Like replacing shocks and struts. It’s not a job that you should attempt if you’re not familiar working with vehicles, but with a little training and experience, you’ll be ready to tackle the job. In most cases, it shouldn’t take more than a couple of hours to get back on the road again.

Can I change struts myself?

Strut replacement is typically not a home mechanic job, as disassembling the strut (harvesting the coil spring and upper mount for reuse) cannot be done without the very careful use of a spring compressing tool.

How do I know if my hood struts are bad?

Every hood strut will fail at some point, so you replace them as needed. In most cases, you might notice that the hood is a little heavier or doesn’t stay as high as it used to. This is a sign that the gas has begun to leak and the strut is at the end of its life.

Can you install hood struts?

If the struts on the hood of your car are failing and you want to install a new hood lift support, you can easily do so yourself. Installing new supports will ensure the reliability and performance of your vehicle, as well as your safety when working under the hood.

How important are hood struts?

Hood struts are responsible for holding the hood open while you perform maintenance or check the engine. If the struts are faulty, the hood may not stay open or could suddenly slam shut, creating a risk of injury when working under the hood.

Is it safe to replace struts yourself?

Replacing shocks and struts can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Read through these instructions carefully before attempting to dismantle your vehicle to ensure safety and efficiency throughout the project.

How much does it cost to replace hood strut?

The average cost for a Hood Support Strut Replacement is between $133 and $143. Labor costs are estimated between $32 and $40 while parts are priced between $101 and $102. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Can I replace struts myself?

These assemblies allow you to replace both of your front struts yourself in less than two hours. You’ll have to get an alignment done afterward, but you’ll still save hundreds by doing the job yourself. You’ll need rust penetrant, wrenches, a pin punch or large screwdriver, and a thin piece of plywood.

Why do hood struts go bad?

The hood slowly closes on its own after you open it.
As the seals age and wear out from use, they thin and fray to the point where the gas starts to leak. This eventually lowers the internal pressure to the point where it can no longer support the hood’s weight, which is why it gradually lowers.