Parts for your 2004 Honda Cr-v-Strut mounts

2004 Honda CR‑V strut mounts: what they do and when to replace them

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant on the 2004 Honda CR‑V. Technical references including the Honda CR‑V 2002–2004 Service Manual (Front Suspension section) and Honda’s parts catalogue for the RD-series confirm a MacPherson strut front suspension, which uses a top strut mount and integrated bearing. The rear of this model uses a separate shock and spring (not a strut), so “strut mounts” apply to the front only.

On the front end, the strut mount sits at the top of the strut assembly under the bonnet. It anchors the strut to the body, isolates vibration with a rubber insulator, and houses a bearing that allows the strut to rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. In everyday driving, the mount’s rubber absorbs bumps and road harshness, while the bearing keeps steering light and consistent. When the mount or bearing wears, drivers can notice knocking over bumps, a creak or groan when turning the wheel, a vague or wandering feel, and uneven tyre wear.

For a 2004 CR‑V, it’s smart to check the front strut mounts whenever front shocks/struts are replaced or if there’s noise from the top of the strut towers. Given the age of these vehicles, many original mounts will be past their best. Replacing mounts and bearings together with new struts avoids double labour and restores steering feel. Look for cracked rubber, separated bonding, rusted caps, or gritty/rough rotation of the bearing when the spring is unloaded. If one side has failed, doing both sides keeps handling balanced.

• Typical service triggers:
  • Clunks or thuds over speed humps and potholes
  • Steering “notchy” on centre or slow to self‑centre
  • Visible rubber cracking or perished insulator
  • Fresh alignment that won’t hold or uneven tyre wear
• Best practice:
  • Replace mounts whenever fitting new front struts
  • Use quality OEM or equivalent mounts with new bearings
  • Tighten fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height and to Honda specifications
  • Get a wheel alignment after any front strut or mount work

Note: the rear suspension on the 2004 CR‑V uses shock mounts, not strut mounts. If there’s rear-end noise, inspect the rear shock upper and lower mounts separately.

Popular questions about 2004 Honda CR‑V strut mounts

Does a 2004 Honda CR‑V have strut mounts on the rear?
No. The rear uses a separate shock and coil spring, so it has shock mounts, not strut mounts. Strut mounts are only on the front MacPherson struts.

How long do front strut mounts last on a 2004 CR‑V?
Many last well past 150,000 km, but age, road conditions, and load play a big part. On vehicles of this age, it’s common to replace mounts when renewing front struts to prevent noise and restore steering feel.

Is an alignment needed after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Any time front struts or mounts are changed, a wheel alignment is recommended to ensure proper tyre wear and stable handling.