How to Replace Front Struts Buick LeSabre

*Check out the tools we used below. If the video was helpful, please give it a "thumbs up" and consider subscribing to the channel.*
This video goes over how to replace front struts on a 2004 Buick LeSabre Custom with a 3.8 motor. This will be the same process for any 1999-2005 Buick LeSabre. Installing a quick strut is much quicker and usually has better results with everything being new. Removal and installation times are the same, but you save time/labor by not disassembling and assembling the strut. If you only replace the strut, it would be new of course, but your coil spring, upper spring seat, strap mounting bearing plate, upper and lower insulators will all still have a lot of wear. Not to mention the fact that you would have to use a spring compressor to disassemble and reassemble the strut assembly.The energy that a compressed spring packs is tremendous. Compressing the spring can be extremely dangerous if not done properly and with the correct tools. Don’t use a homemade spring compressor because if it fails it could seriously injure you. Signs that your struts are bad are vehicle sagging, unusual tire wear, weird noises, or vehicle sway. This job can be done with hand tools, but air tools definitely speed up the process.
Tools needed:
Wrench Set -- -- amzn.to/2W1mUhG
Penetrating Oil -- -- amzn.to/3lN6e6u
1/2 Socket Set -- -- amzn.to/3tUOTfm
Ratchet -- -- amzn.to/2TJWMGT
Air Impact Gun -- -- amzn.to/3B71a3u
Hand Cleaner -- -- amzn.to/3jkXlBk
Rubber Gloves -- -- amzn.to/35STq6Q
Shop Towels -- -- amzn.to/3y2KwzR
Parts:
Front Struts -- -- amzn.to/3kprTC3
These are the tools we used or something that’s similar. There are many manufacturers and various prices. It's a good idea to buy the better tool with the best warranty and easiest exchange in case of tool failure.
Disclaimer:
The Auto Teacher assumes no liability for property damage or injury that happens as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Any information learned from this video is to be used at your own risk. The Auto Teacher recommends safety first! Protective gloves, safety glasses and jack stands are highly recommended. These tutorials are made strictly to help people with their car projects and are given to provide factual information we’ve learned over the past 40 years working on cars. We do not guarantee any particular result or any particular warranty. Any injury, loss or damage contained by the viewer while attempting to follow the video’s instructions is solely the viewer’s fault and not The Auto Teacher.

[@jerbear7952]

Im glad my lack of hammer accuracy wont be a hinderence in my automotive career ;) thanks for the video. Very helpful :)

[@TheAutoTeacher]

You're welcome!

[@sck112775]

Thanks for the video. Doing my daughter’s 2000 regal this weekend.

[@TheAutoTeacher]

You’re welcome. Good luck!

[@jamesrichardson771]

Ya ever heard of PB blaster? Use it the night before, the job.🛠

[@TheAutoTeacher]

Not really realistic in a shop situation when you're unaware of the parts and needs of the vehicle until you start working on it.

[@robertjones6853]

I wonder if it is that easy on a 2001 Buick lesabre? My mechanic was concerned about having to compress the spring to get the new strut in place. Does not look like a problem on the 2004. Thanks for making it so clear!

[@TheAutoTeacher]

Being a 2001 it would probably be faster and more economical to use a quick strut like we did.. which means everything will be brand new instead of having some 20 year old parts in the strut.

[@leonj1978]

I have a . 1992 oldsmobile 98 regency elite and I think I might half to do this also. The back started saggn bad. Would I do the same method 🤔 with the quick struts???

[@TheAutoTeacher]

The same principle would apply, but the mounting points would be different. And I would check to find out if your vehicle came with struts, air suspension or regular shocks in the rear.

[@lamar7327]

Anyone have a quick strut brand recommendation for the lesabre?
I am seeing alot of people complain about the ride height after replacement. Thanks

[@TheAutoTeacher]

Any brand name OEM quick strut that is sold by a reputable vendor, Auto Zone, Advance, Napa , O'Reilly's should work great for your Buick. Price and length of warranty of course is a big factor ,just make sure that you don't get a HD or severe duty strut which of course would affect ride quality and height.

[@randrews7036]

KYB makes good quick struts

[@mauriceking5149]

What kind of tool is needed to remove the struts etc

[@TheAutoTeacher]

You can see everything we used in the video description!

[@widtrak77]

Alignment

[@TheAutoTeacher]

Recommended.