Parts for your 2000 Toyota Altezza-Strut mounts

2000 Toyota Altezza strut-mounts: what they do and how to look after them

Based on Toyota’s technical literature for the XE10 platform—namely the New Car Features (NCF) manual, the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), and the Altezza/IS200 workshop manuals—the 2000 Toyota Altezza (AS200/RS200) runs double-wishbone suspension front and rear, not MacPherson struts. Even so, each shock absorber/coil assembly is secured to the body with an upper support insulator often referred to in the trade as strut-mounts or top mounts. So yes, “strut-mounts” are relevant on this model, though they don’t include a steering bearing like a typical MacPherson setup.

On the Altezza, these mounts are the rubber-and-metal interface between the shock assembly and the chassis. Their job is to isolate noise and vibration, keep the shock centred, and cope with the constant up–down movement over Aussie and Kiwi roads. When the rubber perishes or splits, owners may notice knocks over sharp bumps, extra cabin vibration, or a slightly harsher, tinny feel through the body. Leave them too long and they can accelerate wear on shocks and contribute to uneven tyre wear due to poor damping control.

As part of normal servicing, a quick visual and physical check of the strut-mounts is a smart move—look for cracked rubber, separation from the metal plate, or tell-tale shiny witness marks where the assembly has been moving. Any oil misting on the shock body is a cue to inspect the mount more closely.

• Best practice is to replace strut-mounts in axle pairs (both fronts or both rears) whenever shocks are replaced.
• Use quality OEM-equivalent or performance mounts if the car is lowered or driven hard, stiffer mounts can sharpen response but may add a bit more NVH.
• A post-job alignment check is recommended, especially if other suspension hardware has been disturbed.

Many 2000 Altezzas hit 120,000–200,000 km before the mounts show obvious symptoms, but climate and road quality matter. If the car thumps over potholes, creaks at low speed, or the top hats show visible cracking, it’s time. With the right gear, a competent workshop can swap mounts as part of a shock service in short order, bringing back the tidy, planted feel the XE10 chassis is known for.

Popular questions

Do 2000 Altezzas have MacPherson struts?
No. Technical sources for the XE10 confirm double-wishbone suspension at both ends. That means the damper isn’t a structural steering member. The car still uses upper shock supports—commonly called strut-mounts or top mounts—to attach the shock to the body and isolate NVH.

What are the signs the strut-mounts need replacing on an Altezza?
Owners often notice a dull knock over bumps, extra vibration, or see cracked rubber at the top mount. If shocks are due, it’s efficient to replace the mounts at the same time to restore ride quality and longevity.

Do Altezza strut-mounts have bearings like other Toyotas?
On the XE10 double-wishbone layout, the front mounts don’t contain a steering bearing as the shock doesn’t rotate with the wheels. They’re primarily rubber insulators with a metal plate, so inspection focuses on rubber condition and secure fitment.