Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Ford Explorer Base, 2.0 9FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Strut and Spring Assembly: Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Silicone Brake Caliper Grease and Dielectric Compound XG-3-A |
ESE-M1C171-A |
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | - | 3C239 Dust boot |
| 2 | - | 5130 Spring |
| 3 | - | 18183 Upper strut mount |
| 4 | - | W520215 Strut rod nut 133 Nm (98 lb-ft) |
| 5 | - | 18198 Jounce bumper |
| 6 | - | 5415 Lower spring insulator |
| 7 | - | 18124 Strut assembly |
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
