Parts for your 2004 Honda Stream-Strut mounts

2004 Honda Stream strut mounts: what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references — the Honda Stream (2001–2005 RN1–RN5) Workshop Manual – Suspension, the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue, and aftermarket fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe — the 2004 Honda Stream runs a MacPherson-strut front suspension that uses a dedicated upper strut mount with an integrated bearing. The rear suspension is a multi-link/double-wishbone arrangement with a separate shock and coil spring, so there’s no rear strut mount. In short: front strut mounts are fitted and relevant, rear strut mounts don’t apply on this model.

On the front of a 2004 Honda Stream, the strut mounts do more than just hold things together. They locate the top of the strut to the body, isolate noise and vibration from the cabin, and, thanks to the built-in bearing, let the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. That little sandwich of rubber, metal, and bearing makes a big difference to steering feel and ride comfort, especially in a family MPV that often carries a bit of weight.

As they age, the rubber can harden or crack, and the bearing can dry out. Owners might notice clunks over speed humps, a knock or twang when turning lock-to-lock, vague or notchy steering feel, or accelerated front tyre wear. On rough Aussie and Kiwi roads, or with frequent urban kerb hops, they cop extra abuse.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but a sensible approach is to inspect the mounts at every major service, or any time the front shocks/struts are replaced — often around 80,000–150,000 km depending on use. If the struts are out, it’s smart money to renew the mounts, the bearing/insulator, and related consumables like bump stops and dust boots in one go.

• Tell-tale signs: perished rubber, visible cracking, rusted top plate, or a notchy top bearing causing “memory steer”.
• Replacement tips: always do both fronts together, use a quality spring compressor, and torque the top nut to spec with the spring properly seated.
• After the job: book a wheel alignment. Disturbing the strut-to-knuckle bolts can nudge camber and toe.
• Parts choice: OE-equivalent mounts keep factory NVH, while some heavy-duty options add durability for rougher roads or heavier loads.

Look after the front strut mounts and the Stream rewards with quieter running, crisper steering, and tyres that wear the way they should.

Does the 2004 Honda Stream have rear strut mounts?

No. Technical documentation shows the rear is a double-wishbone/multi-link layout with a separate shock and spring, so there’s no rear strut and no rear strut mount on this model. Only the front uses strut mounts.

How long do the front strut mounts last on a 2004 Honda Stream?

It varies with roads and load, but many last between 80,000 and 150,000 km. City kerbs, corrugations, and extra passengers can shorten life. If the front struts are due, it’s cost‑effective to do the mounts at the same time.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing front strut mounts?

Yes. Removing the front struts can shift camber and toe slightly. A post‑fitment alignment keeps steering straight and tyre wear even.