When you do the maintenance for your vehicle, it’s important to know the parts of your car’s suspension system. One of them is strut mount. So what is a strut mount? Why is it important for your vehicle?
In this article, we will talk about strut mount, including its function, the common symptoms of failure, the cost of replacement, and more.
What Is A Strut Mount?
A strut mount is a crucial part that connects the suspension strut to the vehicle’s chassis. It acts as a cushion between the strut and the vehicle, which helps to absorb shocks and vibrations from the road. In addition, many front strut mounts have a bearing or bearing plate, which serves as the steering pivot, allowing for smooth and controlled steering.
Below is an introduction to its primary functions and features:
- Connection Point: The strut mount is a part that connects the strut assembly and the car body. It is the key point to maintain the integrity of the suspension system.
- Damping Vibrations: The rubber or urethane in the strut mount can help reduce the vibration and noise from the road, and make the ride more comfortable.
- Bearing Support: Some strut mounts are designed with a bearing or bearing plate, which allows the strut to rotate. This is very important for front-wheel-drive vehicles, as the strut is also a part of the steering system.
- Alignment: The strut mount can help keep the suspension system’s correct alignment. It makes the vehicle handle correctly and keeps the tire wear even.
- Load Bearing: The strut mount bears the weight of the vehicle and the forces during driving. It should be strong enough to avoid any failure.
Can You Drive with A Broken Strut Mount?
It is not recommended to drive with a broken strut mount, which can be dangerous. A broken strut mount will affect the stability and handling of your vehicle, leading to potentially hazardous driving conditions.
Here are the reasons why driving with a broken strut mount is risky:
- Reduced Suspension Functionality: If the strut mount is broken, the strut assembly will be loose or misaligned, and then the suspension system can’t absorb shocks and keep the tire in touch with the road surface as it should. So, the ride quality will be rough and unpredictable.
- Increased Risk of Further Damage: If you keep driving with a broken strut mount, it will cause damage to other suspension components, such as the struts, springs, and other mounting hardware. Then you’ll need to repair them all, which costs you more.
- Handling and Control Issues: A broken strut mount can affect the handling and control of the vehicle, making it difficult to steer, unstable, and poor in braking performance. It may cause accidents, especially when you make emergency maneuvers or drive in bad conditions.
- Tire Wear Uneven: A compromised suspension system can cause tire wear, reduce the lifespan of the tire, and compromise traction and handling.
- Safety Concerns: Driving with a broken strut mount will compromise the overall vehicle safety. In case of sudden maneuvers or impacts, such as potholes or bumps, the suspension system may fail to absorb the shocks, which will increase the risk of loss of control and accidents.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Strut Mount?
The cost of replacing a strut mount varies by different factors, such as the vehicle’s make and model, the location of the repair shop, and whether you only replace the strut mount or the whole strut assembly.
Here’s a general cost analysis:
- Parts Cost:
- A single strut mount usually costs $20 to $100.
- If you replace the whole strut assembly (including the strut, spring, and mount), it can cost $150 to $400 per assembly.
- Labor Cost:
- The labor cost for replacing a strut mount is usually about $100 to $300, depending on the complexity of the job and local labor rates.
- Total Cost:
- Replacing a single strut mount usually costs $120 to $400.
- Replacing the whole strut assembly on both sides of the vehicle can cost $400 to $1,200.
Prices may vary depending on the location and the repair shop. The luxury or high-performance vehicles may be higher. You’d better ask your mechanic to give you an estimate in details before you decide to repair it.
What Are The Symptoms of A Bad Strut Mount?
It is important to notice the failure of the strut mount in advance. Here are some common symptoms of a bad strut mount:
- Unusual Noises:
- Clunking or Knocking: You might hear clunking or knocking noises, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
- Squeaking: A worn-out strut mount can produce squeaking sounds during turns or while driving on rough roads.
- Steering Problem:
- Hard to Steer: You may find it harder to turn the vehicle smoothly, for there is increased resistance or stiffness in the steering wheel.
- Wandering: The vehicle may drift or pull to one side, indicating that the strut mount fails to hold the strut in place.
- Vibrations:
- Steering Wheel Vibration: A defective strut mount may result in steering wheel vibration, especially at high speed or turning.
- Cabin Vibration: You may feel more vibrations in the cabin, which makes the ride less comfortable.
- Uneven Tire Wear:
- Tire Wear Patterns: Uneven tire wear can occur if the strut mount is not maintaining proper alignment, leading to excessive wear on certain parts of the tire.
- Visible Damage:
- Cracks or Wear: When you check it visually, you may find cracks, corrosion, or excessive wear on the strut mount, which means it should be replaced.
- Uncomfortable Riding Experience:
- A worn strut mount will make your ride more uncomfortable and bumpy because it can’t absorb the shocks from the road properly.
If you experience any of these symptoms, please ask a qualified mechanic to check your car.
How Do You Replace A Strut Mount?
Replacing a strut mount is a moderately complex automotive repair task that requires some mechanical knowledge and the right tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack and Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket set and ratchet
- Wrenches
- Spring compressor
- Penetrating oil
- Torque wrench
- Replacement strut mount
- Safety glasses and gloves
Steps to Replace a Strut Mount:
- Preparation:
Before the operation, park the vehicle on flat ground and apply the parking brake. Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection. - Raise the Vehicle:
Loosen the lug nuts with a lug wrench. Lift the vehicle with a jack and support it with jack stands. Take off the wheel by unscrewing the lug nuts completely. - Access the Strut Assembly:
Find the strut assembly in the wheel well. Apply penetrating oil to the bolts and nuts for easy removal. - Remove the Strut Assembly:
Disconnect any components connected to the strut. Remove the bolts attaching the strut to the steering knuckle. Open the hood to find the strut mount bolts at the top of the strut tower. Support the strut from below while removing the mount bolts. - Compress the Spring
Use a spring compressor tool to compress the coil spring on the strut assembly. Follow the instructions of the compressor tool carefully for safety. Remove the nut holding the strut mount in position after compression. - Remove and Replace the Strut Mount
Take off the old strut mount and replace it with the new one. Ensure the alignment and seating of the new strut mount. - Reassemble the Strut Assembly
Reinstall the nut holding the strut mount. Carefully release the tension on the spring compressor. - Reinstall the Strut Assembly
Align the strut assembly and insert it back into the strut tower. Tighten the strut mount bolts to the torque specified by the manufacturer. Reattach the strut to the steering knuckle and reconnect any components that were removed.
Which Strut Mounts Are Suitable for Different Vehicle Models?
Choosing the right strut mount for your vehicle is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Here’s a guide to help you understand which strut mounts are suitable for different vehicle models:
- OEM Replacement:
For those who prioritize maintaining their vehicle’s original performance and reliability, choosing Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) strut mounts is a suitable option. OEM parts are designed specifically for your vehicle model by the manufacturer, ensuring perfect compatibility and the same ride quality as the original parts. However, OEM parts can be more expensive, reflecting their guaranteed compatibility and quality.
- Cost-Effective Aftermarket Options:
If you want to save some money without sacrificing quality, aftermarket strut mounts are your best choice. Aftermarket parts provide the same quality as OEM parts but at a lower price. They are made by third-party manufacturers and can be produced with various materials and performance levels. The price is usually lower than OEM parts, but the durability and functionality are similar. Just make sure to choose the correct part for your vehicle make, model, and suspension system.
Here we suggest GDST Strut Mount for your reference, GDST is an aftermarket manufacturer of strut mounts in China with 20 years of experience, they supply high-quality strut mounts to customers worldwide.
Summary
To sum up, strut mounts play an important role in the suspension system of a vehicle. Knowing what strut mounts do, finding out the symptoms of failure, and dealing with them in time are necessary to keep a smooth and comfortable ride.
If you find any symptoms of a failing strut mount, please let a qualified mechanic inspect your vehicle and replace any worn or damaged components.
By being proactive and dealing with suspension issues in time, you could ensure the long-term reliability and performance of your vehicle on the road.
