Changing the strut mount – Do it the right way!

A strut mount also called suspension strut support mount, is one of the most important components of the chassis and is jointly responsible for the precision of the steering. Faults and defects in the strut mount become apparent very quickly and should be repaired as soon as possible. In the following overview, we will tell you whether a workshop is necessary for the repair, what costs you can expect and how you can carry out the repair or replacement yourself.

The strut mount and its functions

The function of the strut mount is to connect the strut to the body of the vehicle. Both strut mounts on the front axle allow the suspension strut to rotate in the so-called suspension strut dome during steering movements.

Thus, the suspension strut support mounts are required for precise steering, as both the rotation and the angle to the body of the strut are made possible through them. Moreover, the strut mounts have a damping effect, so that noises as well as vibrations of the chassis are reduced and only transmitted to a small extent to the body.

Symptoms of a defect in the strut mount

Defects in the strut mounts usually become apparent quite quickly. However, not all of these symptoms necessarily indicate a defective strut mount. You should therefore always check the functionality of the strut mount before replacing it.

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However, the following three symptoms are typical of a defective strut mount:

1. The steering is considerably more sluggish than usual. Steering movements are often jerky.

2. The steering is slack, or it reacts to steering movements with delay.

3. Driving through potholes leads to a loud banging or rattling noise. An unusual crackling or rumbling can also be heard during steering movements.

Replacing the strut mount yourself or at a workshop?

Basically, replacing the strut mount is not that difficult, but it is quite time-consuming.

For this, you usually need special tools such as a spring compressor, as the shock absorbers usually have to be removed for replacement. If you do not have such a tool at hand or have never worked with a spring compressor before, you should have the replacement carried out by a specialist workshop.

Improper handling of shock absorbers that are still under tension can lead to serious injuries. If you have the necessary tools and experience, you can easily replace the shock absorbers yourself.

Is the strut mount a wearing part?

As a rule, strut mounts are not wearing parts.

Due to their design and function, they are made to last for the entire life of the vehicle. However, such factors as driving style, external influences, e.g. frost, road salt or strong temperature fluctuations, can significantly impair the service life and thus cause premature wear.

It is important to replace a defective strut mount at an early stage, because further costs may arise if the repair is not carried out or if the replacement is delayed. Defective strut mounts place a particularly heavy load on the shock absorbers and may therefore also incur repair costs.

Costs to be considered

Strut mounts are not that expensive. Depending on the vehicle and manufacturer, you can expect costs between 15 and 70 pounds per strut mount.
It can therefore be worthwhile to have the second strut mount replaced at the same time as the first one. Especially if you have the work carried out by a specialist garage. Depending on the type and design of the vehicle, the replacement usually takes between two and four hours. Most specialist workshops charge between 130 and 300 pounds for the replacement of a single strut mount, the new strut mount included. If both strut mounts are replaced, the costs rise to 200 to 500 pounds. After the replacement, however, the track of the vehicle must be readjusted. The necessary wheel alignment and the new adjustment will cost you another 70 to 120 pounds.

Tools required for the replacement:

If you want to replace the strut mount yourself, you should have a well-equipped workshop at least. In any case, you will need a lifting platform. Working with simple jacks is clearly too complicated and unsuitable to try here. Also, you will need:

Strut mount replacement explained step by step

The removal and replacement of the strut mount can vary from vehicle to vehicle and from manufacturer to manufacturer in the individual work steps. Sports vehicles are often much more compactly built and require much more effort when replacing. In any case, work calmly, as handling the shock absorbers can quickly become dangerous if mistakes are made.

1. To replace the strut mount, simply follow the steps below:

– First, drive the vehicle onto the lifting platform and raise it. – As the next step, the wheels may now be removed. – Then remove the coupling rods, which are connected to the suspension strut. – Now detach the suspension strut from the steering knuckle according to the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions. – Release the suspension strut with the spring compressor and secure it. – Now remove the shock absorber nut. – Now the strut mount can be removed and replaced with a spare part. – Now it’s the assembly time. – Make sure that the shock absorber nut is tightened to the correct torque. Too much pressure could lead to the bolt spinning. – Now the suspension strut can be installed. Carry out all steps in reverse order. – The replacement is complete. – Now the vehicle should go to wheel alignment, because the track must be re-adjusted. To do this, drive immediately to a specialist workshop in the immediate vicinity.

2. Pay attention to the following when replacing the strut mounts:

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