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Lada Granta 1.6 8V 87 hp (2015): Front Shock Absorber Replacement

On the first-generation Granta, the front suspension is independent, with coil springs and twin-tube shock absorbers. Shock absorbers last 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles). When they fail, you get poor handling, clunks under braking and body roll in corners. They are replaced as a complete strut assembly.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 2-3 hours Steps: 13 Tools: Lift or inspection pit, wrench set (13, 17, 19 mm), 17 mm socket wrench, screwdriver, spring compressor (recommended)

Part

  • 🔩 Front shock absorbers (complete strut assemblies) 2170-2905402 (original Lada). Aftermarket alternatives: Kayaba, Monroe, Bilstein

Step by step

13 steps
  1. Place the car on a lift or over a pit, raise the front wheels off the ground, and remove both front wheels.
  2. Open the hood. Find the strut mount (three bolts under the hood near the strut tower).
  3. Loosen the three bolts that secure the strut to the body (17 mm wrench). Do not remove them completely; leave the bolts in their holes.
  4. Under the car, remove the bolt that secures the lower end of the strut to the steering knuckle (19 mm wrench). Remove the bolt completely.
  5. Carefully lower the strut, supporting it by hand. Pull the three upper bolts out of their holes.
  6. Remove the old complete strut assembly.
  7. Unpack the new strut. If the spring or the upper support bearing needs replacing (visible cracks, knocking when you rock it), disassemble the strut on a bench with a spring compressor.
  8. Install the new strut by inserting the three upper bolts into the holes under the hood, and snug them lightly (do not fully tighten).
  9. Install the bolt that secures the strut to the steering knuckle and tighten it with a 19 mm wrench to 50-70 N·m (37-52 lb-ft) (check the maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle).
  10. Tighten the three upper bolts with a 17 mm wrench to 20-25 N·m (15-18 lb-ft).
  11. Install the wheel and tighten the wheel bolts in a star pattern.
  12. Repeat on the other side.
  13. Lower the car and have the alignment checked at a repair shop.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • When replacing the front struts, do not over-flex the spring during removal, as this can damage the upper support bearing. If you remove the spring from the strut yourself, use a proper spring compressor; do not try to compress it by hand. Be sure to have the wheel alignment adjusted after replacement. Incorrect angles will cause the car to pull to one side and the tires to wear unevenly.
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