A length-adjustable assembly and method including a connecting element for connecting the assembly to a component so that the connection can be subjected to tensile loads and compressive loads, the connecting element being plugged along the longitudinal axis onto an axial end section with respect to the longitudinal axis of the assembly. The connecting element includes a latching arm elastically bendable outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis in a mounting configuration of the connecting element for plugging the connecting element onto the end portion, wherein the latching arm includes a latching element, wherein the latching element to positively cooperate with a mating latching element of the end portion, the mating latching element of complementary shape to the latching element, in an operating configuration of the connecting element fitted onto the end portion along the longitudinal axis.