Anyway I began this process based on a google search that I found ... It I stricter me to remove all the trunk guts etc. Then something about removing the seat from the trunk ! Do NOT do this !!!!!! I learned to hard way you now don't have to. My advise is don't even open the trunk until the very end of the install. There are just some simple steps to make this repair (and boy is nice to have the trunk not falling on my head)
First you'll need a Phillips screwdriver and a basic socket set/wrench (there's only two bolts that require a socket)
1.) remove lower rear seat ( part you bottom goes on)
In the middle of the base between the carpet and leather feel around for a pull tab on each side. Pull the tabs releasing the bottom seat... I just removed it , it's light and easy plus I needed the space I'm a big fella.
2.) remove the back portion of the rear seat by removing the two bolts from the middle of the seat approx. 6 inches apart. On e the two bolts are off lift the seat upward off the "hook" the remove( if you have help with this step it would be handy) make sure to lift evenly that's why help is good but not absolutely needed.
3. With you hand move the padding ( looks like carpet pad) out of the way and wallah you'll see that end of the strut you thought you'd never find:)!
4.) open the trunk and get some help to hold the trunk up or use a strong post of some sort that can hold the weight of the trunk. Do one side at a time this helps off set weight of the trunk.
5.)Remove the old strut ( remember which direction it was installed in ... Another reason doing one at a time)carefully I used needle nose pliers and gently coaxed it off the ball ( the last thing you want to do is apply too much pressure and potentially break the receiver ball off) they do from what I understand make a tool for this. I started with the end that was inside by the back seats simply because I felt I had more room to maneuver and adjust in the trunk. Repeat on other side and you done you genius ! You've just saved yourself 300 bucks .... I know just breath.
6.) put it back together in reverse oersted you took it apart
your done have a nice glass of ice tea and feel accomplished. To have the trunk operate properly ...priceless.Blessings ,Wes
