Parts for your 1999 Ford Falcon-Struts

1999 Ford Falcon “struts” — are they actually a thing?

Short answer: no. On the 1999 Ford Falcon (AU Series), what many people call “struts” aren’t used. According to the Ford AU Falcon Workshop Manual (Suspension section), Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual for Falcon AU (1998–2002), and Autodata technical specifications, the AU runs a double wishbone front suspension with separate coil springs and shock absorbers, not MacPherson struts. At the rear it’s either a coil-sprung live axle or the optional independent rear suspension, both using conventional shocks rather than struts.

Why no struts? A MacPherson strut is a load-bearing damper that also locates the wheel and bolts to a strut tower. The AU Falcon’s front setup uses upper and lower control arms to locate the wheel, with the damper acting only as a shock absorber. Ford’s engineering for AU focused on camber control, steering precision and durability (fleet and taxi use were big priorities), which is why the double wishbone layout was chosen instead of a strut. Contemporary technical coverage of the AU launch also highlighted the move to this geometry for ride and handling benefits.

So when someone asks for “1999 Falcon struts”, what they usually need are shock absorbers and related mounts or bushes. Up front, look at front shocks, upper and lower control arm bushes and ball joints, and sway bar links/bushes. There are no “strut tops” on this model. Out back, plan on rear shocks and, depending on axle type, trailing arm and panhard rod bushes (live axle) or control arm/toe bushes (IRS).

• Common symptoms it’s time for shocks: excessive bouncing, nose-diving under brakes, floaty motorway feel, cupped tyre wear, or visible oil leaks on the damper body.
• Best practice: replace shocks in axle pairs, tighten control arm bushes at normal ride height, and book a wheel alignment after any suspension work.
• Typical service life: many see 80,000–120,000 km, but towing, rough roads and heavy loads can shorten that.

Referencing: Ford AU Falcon Workshop Manual (Suspension 204-00), Gregory’s Falcon AU 1998–2002 manual, and Autodata list the AU’s double wishbone front and shock-based rear setups, confirming that “struts” are not fitted to the 1999 Falcon.

FAQ: Does a 1999 Ford Falcon have struts?

No. The AU Falcon uses a double wishbone front suspension with separate shocks and springs, and shocks at the rear. There are no MacPherson struts or strut tops on this model.

FAQ: If it doesn’t have struts, what parts should be ordered for the front end?

Ask for front shock absorbers, upper and lower control arm bushes and ball joints, and sway bar links/bushes. Alignment is recommended after replacing control arms or bushes.

FAQ: When should the shocks be replaced on a 1999 Falcon?

As a guide, every 80,000–120,000 km, or sooner if you notice leaking dampers, bouncy ride, longer braking distance, or uneven tyre wear. Heavy loads, towing and rough roads can accelerate wear.