How to Replace the Springs in a Saturn VUE

The Saturn VUE is a compact SUV. The VUE caught on quickly with buyers and is one of Saturn's more successful lines. The springs in the VUE are accessible through the Saturn-designed strut system in the front and control arms in the rear. Some after-market springs for the Saturn VUE do not require the use of a Torx socket.

Instructions

Replacing the Front Springs

1

Raise the vehicle and block the wheels with jack stands if necessary before removing the strut assembly from the VUE and placing it in a compressor.

2

Compress the spring enough to remove the upper mount. This can be dangerous if the compressor is not attached properly. Compress the spring slowly as it the energy it holds is dangerous if released improperly.

3

Use a Torx socket to hold the shaft and remove the strut shaft nut.

4

Release the spring compressor and remove the spring. Check all the other components of the strut assembly for signs of wear before replacing the spring.

5

Place the strut back into the compressor and fully extend the shaft of the strut and reattach the spring to the strut.

6

Align the flat of the upper spring seat with the strut-to-knuckle bracket before putting the top mount onto the strut. Tighten the strut top nut and align the upper spring seat and top mount before tightening the nut.

7

Take off the spring compressor and reattach the strut to the Saturn VUE.

Replacing the Rear Springs

8

Remove the wheels and disconnect the stabilizer link to the lower control arm nut and the underbody bolts on the trailing bracket.

9

Put a jack beneath the lower control arm to support it and remove the bolt on the lower shock. Remove the lower control arm's jounce jumper nut, support frame bolt and arm-to-knuckle retainers.

10

Lower the jack slowly to release the tension on the spring and remove the spring. This is potentially dangerous and has to be done cautiously as the spring could cause serious bodily injury.

11

Replace the spring and inspect the lower control arm for signs of wear and reinstall the spring.

12

Tighten the jounce jumper by hand and move the lower control arm into position using the jack.

13

Reinstall the following on the lower control arm: arm-to-knuckle fasteners and bolts, arm-to-support bolt. Attach the shock absorber lower bolt, jounce jumper nut and stabilizer bar link nut. Tighten all to the manufacturer's specifications.

14

Install the trailing arm and wheels. Lower the VUE and perform a safety check before driving.