Fairly easy, but tedious because of the need to remove the side panels and I opted to remove the third-row seat for better access and less headache in the long run. Thus, a lot of screws. It really got to the point of absurdity; like it was a German design. Usually Japanese vehicles are more straight-forward...
Having said that; I didn't have any major issues at all.
Tools needed (from memory).
7mm socket
10 mm socket
14 mm socket
15 mm socket
Vice grips or crescent wrench
KYB 349070 Excel-G Gas Shock X2
I bought the shocks from RockAuto. Google a coupon code for 5% off. $102.97 and arrived in 2-3 days.
Start removing screws. 10mm
Here's an idea of all the screws you will be removing. Get a bag and put all your parts in them. Do one side at a time so you can reference the other side when putting it back together...
Also, the cup holder needs to be removed. Pry it up and pull it off. Don't worry, you won't (likely) break it.
Pull up and remove the trim pieces around the bumper (where the tailgate hooks/secures). As I recall it is removed in three pieces. Could have sworn I took a pick of that...
Remove the rear tray. This just pulls up and out.
You are going to want to remove the silver metal bracket over the sub-woofer. These are still 10mm screws.
Having said that; I didn't have any major issues at all.
Tools needed (from memory).
7mm socket
10 mm socket
14 mm socket
15 mm socket
Vice grips or crescent wrench
KYB 349070 Excel-G Gas Shock X2
I bought the shocks from RockAuto. Google a coupon code for 5% off. $102.97 and arrived in 2-3 days.
Start removing screws. 10mm
Here's an idea of all the screws you will be removing. Get a bag and put all your parts in them. Do one side at a time so you can reference the other side when putting it back together...
Also, the cup holder needs to be removed. Pry it up and pull it off. Don't worry, you won't (likely) break it.
Pull up and remove the trim pieces around the bumper (where the tailgate hooks/secures). As I recall it is removed in three pieces. Could have sworn I took a pick of that...
Remove the rear tray. This just pulls up and out.
You are going to want to remove the silver metal bracket over the sub-woofer. These are still 10mm screws.