I need to know how to get to top bolts of strut do I need to remove rear seat or just side panels

 

I have never done it but I would start with the side panels and if that does not allow access, then the seat would be next.

 

Is their any secrets to pulling sides off

 

Find a spot where you can start prying and just be extremely careful. Should just pop off at various points.

 

you will need to remove the rear (third row) seats, if your journey has them and then the upper molding by the tailgate, then the two rear side interior panels. After you have done tgat you are able to access the nuts for the rear struts. Just changed my 2010 rear struts two months ago.

 

there are roughly three small bolts/screws to each side panel