How do you change the rear shocks on a 2000 Toyota Echo?

Answer 1

Rear shocks on the Toyota Echo are relatively simple to change. The hardest part is removing the rear seat back to get at the upper shock mounts which are exposed just below the rear window deck.

In some models the seat back folds forward by releasing the latch which normally folds the seat down for extra cargo.

In the two door with the fixed seat back you have to firmly jerk the bottom seat cushion upward at the front edge, releasing it. Then remove the cushion from the vehicle to give yourself some room. Releasing the seat back cushion is a matter of removing the bolts which are now exposed at the bottom and then sliding it up and off the top retaining loops.

That accomplished you can remove the nut off the top of the shock stud and remove the bottom of the shock from its stud or bolt.

Be sure to keep all the original hardware and rubber grommets, including the dirt shields from the original shocks if possible. You will need them

Replace the shock with a good quality Japanese OEM shock. Do not be tempted to use the less expensive American branded shocks. Their one-size-fits-all hardware is problematic and the quality is sadly, dubious.

The shocks and the seat go in the way they came out. Be sure to properly torque the nuts top and bottom. It is helpful to use anti-sieze on the bottom bolts or studs to make future removal easier. Good Luck!