Should You Replace Strut Mounts When You Replace Struts? – Quick Answer

Should You Replace Strut Mounts When You Replace Struts? – Quick Answer

Bottom line: If you’re swapping out the struts, replace the mounts at the same time – it saves labor, prevents future noise, and keeps the ride smooth.

Design & Looks

Strut mounts are the little rubber‑filled caps that sit between the strut shaft and the vehicle’s body. They may look simple, but they do three jobs: isolate vibration, keep the strut aligned, and provide a mounting point for the steering knuckle. Over time the rubber hardens, cracks, or loses its cushioning ability, which can change the visual cue of a healthy suspension – you’ll notice a looser feel or a clunk when you hit a bump.

Performance & Mileage

When the mounts are worn, the strut can move side‑to‑side, causing uneven tire wear and a less stable corner. That extra movement forces the engine to work harder to keep the car straight, which can shave a few miles per gallon off your fuel economy. Replacing both struts and mounts restores proper geometry, improves handling, and helps you stay on the advertised mileage figures.

• Less road noise and vibration inside the cabin.
• More predictable steering response.
• Longer tire life thanks to even wear.

Price & Rivals

Many shops quote a separate price for mounts, but the labor overlap is huge. Swapping both together usually adds only $30‑$50 for the extra parts, while saving you a future shop visit. Compare this to the cost of a new set of struts ($200‑$400 each) – the mount upgrade is a tiny fraction of the total spend.

Some owners try to stretch the budget by keeping the old mounts. That gamble often leads to a repeat repair within 6‑12 months, which ends up costing more in labor and lost time.

Symptoms of Worn Strut Mounts

• Knocking or clunking sounds when going over bumps.
• Vibrations felt in the steering wheel at highway speeds.
• Uneven tire wear, especially on the inner or outer edges.
• Loose or “floaty” feeling when cornering.

If you notice any of these, inspect the mounts before the struts wear out completely.

FAQ

• Do I need new mounts if my struts are new? Yes – fresh mounts keep the new struts from transferring vibration back to the chassis.
• How much does a strut mount cost? Typically $15‑$40 per side, depending on make and model.
• Can I replace strut mounts myself? It’s doable with basic tools, but you’ll need a spring compressor for safety.

Have you replaced both parts together? Share your experience in the comments below.

Source: Read Official News