Should you replace strut mounts when replacing struts?
It’s not necessary to replace both strut mounts at the same time, but if one is bad, the other one might be worn out too. If struts are replaced for other reasons and strut mounts show some wear or are known to fail in this vehicle, it makes sense to replace them at the same time.
How long do strut mounts last?
How Long Do Strut Mounts Last? A correctly installed strut should last at least ten years, depending on where you live. If you’re in a rural area and go off-roading often or live in a coastal area or where road salt is used in the winter, you’re dooming the mounts to a shorter lifespan.
What is the benefit of strut top mounts?
Keeps your ride quiet and vibration free. As the name (strut mount) implies, it’s a component that attaches the suspension strut to the vehicle. In addition, it insulates the tire noise & vibrations from the vehicle. Many (front) strut mounts also contain a bearing or bearing plate that serves as the steering pivot.
What happens when a strut mount goes bad?
Excessive Movement The strut mount is supposed to help cushion the impact of road bumps on the car. If it malfunctions, it could loosen and fail to keep the strut in place. This could result in abnormal vehicle bounce and excessive movement while driving.
Can I drive with bad strut mounts?
No. It needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A strut works by absorbing the bounce of your car driving over bumps in the road. Driving with a broken strut will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your passengers, and is unsafe in an emergency..
What do bad strut mounts sound like?
Noises coming from a failing strut mount have been described as clunking, knocking, creaking, and grinding. These are usually more obvious when hitting potholes or speed bumps, driving on rough ground, or driving at low speeds while turning the wheels all the way to the stops.
Should top strut mount move?
A slight downward movement is normal, but any side-to-side movement could indicate a defective mount. Push in and out on the strut and spring while watching for movement of the upper end of the strut piston rod. There should be no free movement. If there is excessive movement, the upper strut mount should be replaced.
How do you know if strut mounts are bad?
The most common symptoms of a bad strut mount are squeaking noise when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or knocking, banging, clunking, or popping noises when hitting speed bumps or irregularities on the road. Your mechanic may also recommend replacing the struts at the same time. …
How do I know if my top mounts are worn?
Where it is easier for them to identify potential top strut mount failure is when their customers complain of clunking, knocking, grinding or creaking noises, in particular at low speeds when moving the steering lock to lock, hitting potholes, speed bumps or driving over rough ground.
