How to disassemble and replace the shock absorbers of the Opel Astra.

Today we will explain how to replace the shock absorbers on an Opel Astra model J vehicle. Open the front hood of the car and protect the bodywork using a microfiber cloth. Before proceeding with the removal of the shock absorbers, it is necessary to remove the windshield frame and the wipers. Using adhesive tape, mark the start and end points of the wipers so that when they are reinstalled, we can position them correctly. Then, remove the nut that secures the wiper arms. Remove the windshield frame seal by pulling from one end and using a fork to remove the three rivets that secure the frame, then lift and remove it. With a 45mm Torx key and a socket wrench, unscrew the fastening nut of the upper shock absorber cup. To replace the shock absorbers, lift the front of the vehicle and remove the front wheels. Remove the stabilizer bar link and the brake hose. Use an 18mm socket wrench to unscrew the two screws at the base of the shock absorber. Keep the nut steady using a socket wrench with an 18mm insert and remove the screws. Using a hammer, remove the base of the shock absorber. Unscrew the nut and remove the shock absorber and the cup. To remove the shock absorber, it is necessary to disconnect it from the spring, so suitable tools are required. Indeed, the shock absorber must be secured in a vice, and the tool for shock absorber removal must be inserted; tighten the flange and compress the spring using the socket wrench. Once the shock absorber is free, use a 28mm socket wrench and a 45mm Torx key to unscrew the upper cup. Remove the shock absorber from the spring and the stop buffer from the bar. Replace the shock absorbers and also the cup; to perform the assembly, it is necessary to follow the reverse procedure. Unscrew the bar nut and remove the washer. To activate the system, it is necessary to pump several times on the cylinder. Install the new stop buffer and insert everything onto the spring. Install the shock absorber cup and restart the shock absorber bar nut. Tighten using a 24mm socket wrench and while holding the bar steady with a 6mm wrench, unscrew the tool from the compressor and insert the spring. Clean the hub carrier with a wire brush and mount the shock absorber. Then, install the upper cup and tighten the fastening screw with a socket wrench; insert the shock absorber into the hub carrier and put the screw back in place, tightening it with a torque wrench. Reattach the brake hose and reinstall the link in its upper housing. Tighten using a torque wrench and mount the front wheels to bring the vehicle back to the ground. To conclude the replacement, install the fastening nut of the cup and the windshield frame along with the wiper arms.