Front Strut: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Subaru Outback and 2015 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Using a coil spring compressor, compress the coil spring.
Using a hexagon wrench to prevent strut rod from turning, remove the self-locking nut with ST.
Preparation tool:

ST: STRUT MOUNT SOCKET (20399AG000)

Fig 1: Removing Self-Locking Nut With ST
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the strut mount - front, spacer - front strut, dust cover - front strut and spring seat - front strut UPR from the strut COMPL.
Gradually decrease the compression force of compressor, and remove the coil spring.
Remove the dust cover and helper.