Leaf springs are commonly found in the rear suspension of many pickup trucks. Some SUV's and minivans have leaf springs as well. The leaf springs are used to support the weight of the vehicle and they also determine vehicle height. A leaf spring can be damaged by carrying too much weight. When a spring becomes damaged, then a leaf spring replacement is necessary.
To replace the leaf spring, the weight of the vehicle must be supported. Then the mounting hardware, bushings, and brackets attached to the leaf spring are removed. The spring is detached from the rear axle and removed. Then they new leaf spring is attached and all the components are reattached.
Most manufacturers may cover the cost of a leaf spring replacement under the bumper-to-bumper portion of the factory warranty. Also, there are extended car warranties available that will cover the replacement of the leaf springs. To see if the leaf springs are covered, refer to the factory warranty booklet and extended service contract, if applicable.