Q: How to remove and install the rear shock absorber and Coil Springs for 2001 Nissan Maxima?
A: For the 93-94 models, first of all, turn the rear wheel bolts and jack up the rear of the vehicle and place it on the jack stands before removing the wheels. If there are no plastics covering brake part, then unbolt the brake hose bracket from the strut, and if you are using ABS, then remove the speed sensor wiring harness from the strut. Take the brake caliper aside without disconnecting the hose location and fix the brake caliper wire, after that you have to take the brake disc. If replacing the strut, remove the hub and the wheel bearing assembly, unbolt the lateral arms and trailing arm from the strut and reach the top mounting nuts to be removed by having the trunk trim panels out. Remove the rubber cover and place another man to support the strut and spring and remove the upper three mounting nuts then push out the assembly from the fender well. Check on the status of the strut and if it's worn out then it has to be replaced. For bolt-in applications, position the subframe and push the strut assembly into the fender well, put the upper studs through the shock tower holes and tighten the nuts. Fasten the lateral arms and trailing arm to the strut and then, lift the rear suspension to posed normal ride height and tighten the bolts with the correct torque. Replace the brake hose bracket you had removed and tighten the bolt and then fix the wheel and the lug nuts, and drop the vehicle, and finally, tighten the lug nuts. Last, but not least, fasten the upper mounting nuts, and replace the trim panels of the luggage compartment. The initial step for pulling the 1995 to 2003 models is to release the rear wheel lug nuts, lift the rear end of the car, and then place it on jack stands before the wheels are detached. Loosen the nut and bolt on the lower part of the shock absorber to the axle so that you can separate the shock. The upper mounting nuts are recessed in the trunk area and covered by trim panels, you should remove it and while an assistant is stabilizing the shock and spring assembly, you should unbolt the two nuts then pull the assembly from the fender well. If any of these is present, go on and dismantle the shock absorber or coil spring and replace it. For installation, lead the assembly into the fender well, pass the upper mounting studs through the shock tower holes, make sure that the upper spring seat is in the right position, and tighten the nuts. Push the lower part of the shock into the axle mount, place the bolt inside and lift the suspension to approximate regular settings of ground clearance, introducing the nut and tightening under the appropriate level of torque using a jack head positioned under the trailing arm bracket. Last, but not least, rotate the upper mounting nuts to the needed torque.