How to Replace Shock Absorbers in a Ford Taurus

The Ford Taurus sedan is manufactured with rear shock absorbers that help dampen the jolts experienced by the suspension as the vehicle travels down the road. These shocks can become worn out or damaged over time, and will require replacement. The average backyard mechanic can replace the rear shocks of a Taurus in about one hour.

Difficulty: ModerateInstructionsThings You'll Need:

Socket set
Snips
Floor jack
Jack stands
Lug wrench

Step 1
Raise the Taurus at the rear wheel by placing the jack head on a frame rail ahead of the wheel and pumping the lever until the wheel is in the air. Remove the wheel by turning the lug nuts counterclockwise, then place the wheel away from the work area.
Step 2
Remove the upper mount nut by opening the trunk, peeling the carpet back, and turning the shock's upper mount nut counterclockwise. Some models have a protective cover that can be popped out to gain access. Once the upper nut is off, a bushing and some washers may come with it. These should be a part of the new shock unit kit, and these old units will not be reused.
Step 3
Remove the lower shock mount nut by turning it counterclockwise. Slide the shock assembly from the car by letting it drop out of the body mount hole and sliding it from the lower mount bolt.
Step 4
Replace the shock with a new unit by placing a bushing onto the shock's upper mount bolt, then sliding it through the mount hole on the body. Align and slide the bottom mount eyelet onto the mount bolt, then secure the bottom mount by turning it clockwise. In the trunk, place a bushing onto the bolt, then apply washers if necessary. Tighten the nut clockwise, and replace the plastic cover, if applicable.
Step 5
Replace the wheel by turning the lug nuts clockwise, in an alternating pattern. Remove the jack stand and lower the car using the floor jack. Repeat the entire procedure on the opposite side shock absorber.