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.
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
Get a pedestal type spring compressor that stands on the floor. ReUse your OEM springs. Do not buy quick struts for any reason. Only purchase KYB from rockauto. Do not buy aftermarket. Buy some sway bar links while you're there. Use YouTube videos to self educate
