In order to detach the strut assembly on the 2013 model and the earlier Highlander and 2009 and the earlier RX350, you have to first take off the interior trim that conceals the upper mounting bolts for the strut. Wrench on the lug nuts of the rear wheel, and then pull up the rear of your vehicle and support it with jackstands after which you can remove the wheel. Disconnect the brake hose and the wheel speed sensor on the strut; remove the stabilizer bar link. Place the axle carrier on the stand with the aid of the floor jack and then slacken the strut to axle carrier bolt nuts. For the year models 2004 and above with electronic modulated air suspension, using the line fitting tool removed the air hose at the strut assembly. In the event that the separation of the strut is needed the damper shaft nut does not require total removal but only requires slackening. The other mounting points are three other bolts which hold the struts to the body top of the axle carrier, other mounting points are two bolts which hold the lower end of the strut to the axle carrier; to replace the strut one has to first unbolt the three nuts which are at the upper side where the struts are mounted to the body then you lower the axle carrier, next remove the two bolts holding the strut to the axle carrier then take For test, it is necessary to decide whether the strut assembly requires disassembling for replacing the strut or coil spring-as on the 2004 and later Lexus models with modulated air suspension, a dysfunctional strut assembly would need replacing. For installation, standing where the assembly belongs, an assistant should fit it into the fenderwell, run the mounting studs through the body holes and screw on the nuts but not very tightly. Seat the axle carrier and get it bearing on the strut lower bracket then tighten the bolts and nuts accordingly to the torque specifications. Secure the link of the stabilizer bar to the strut bracket, then install the hydraulic brake hose bracket and the wiring harness of the wheel speed sensor, then secure the wheel and tighten the lug nuts and subsequently lower the vehicle and again tighten the lug nuts to the recommended torque. Last of all, torque the three upper strut mounting nuts to the set torque and install any interior trim over the mounting fasteners.