Suspension refresh DIY - how difficult?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by redprius10, Sep 24, 2025 at 12:10 PM.

  1. redprius10

    redprius10 Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jun 19, 2024
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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Four
    Hi folks.....my 2010 Prius with ~151,000 miles is in need of a suspension refresh (lots of creaks and groans). I consider myself fairly good at repairs/maintenance, but have never done control arms. I've done shocks, tie rods, and other steering components on a Jeep.

    Looks like the rear shocks on the Prius are easy. As for the front and rear control arms and front shocks/springs, can that be done without access to a lift? On a 1-10 scale of difficulty, what am I looking at? I know a bunch of stuff has to come off to access the top of the front shocks, but I've done that before when I replaced the spark plugs.

    Thanks.
     
  2. ASRDogman

    ASRDogman Senior Member

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    Location:
    Florida
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    The rear shocks are fairly easy. You'll have to remove the inside trim to get to the
    top mounting nuts. It will help if you have someone hold the shock while the other
    installs the nuts.
    Replacing the struts is fairly easy also. You will have to remove the wiper assembly and all the
    plastic around the windshield. It's not hard, just clips and bolts.
    You can replace the plugs while you have it off, you are due.
    Oopps, I missread, you already replaced the plugs