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.

SYS.OK|MANUAL.DB● LIVE

HOMESERVICE MANUALSTOYOTA2002HIGHLANDER BASE, 2.4 D, FWDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISSUSPENSIONREAR SUSPENSIONSUSPENSION SYSTEM - REARREMOVAL & INSTALLATIONSTRUT ROD ASSEMBLY (2WD)INSTALLATION

2002 Toyota Highlander Base, 2.4 D, FWD

Strut Rod Assembly (2WD): Installation

2002 Toyota Highlander Base, 2.4 D, FWDSECTION Installation

NOTE: and temporarily install the nut.

Install the strut rod (rear side). Insert the bolt from the inner side of the vehicle and temporarily tighten the nut.
Support the rear axle carrier.
Connect the strut rod (inner side) with the bolt. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Raise up the rear axle carrier, placing a wood block between them. Apply load to the suspension so that the installed bolt of the suspension arm assembly No. 1 (vehicle side) is horizontally aligned with the center of the rear axle hub. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Stabilizing Suspension (2WD)
Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Fully tighten the bolt on the strut rod. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Install the parking brake cable with the bolt and nut. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Install the rear wheel. Tighten wheel lug nuts. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Check alignment. See WHEEL ALIGNMENT article in ADJUSTMENTS.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready Tools Free Quote Check Quote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.