Parts for your 2005 Toyota Avensis-Strut mounts

2005 Toyota Avensis strut mounts: what they do and when to sort them

Based on technical sources, strut mounts are absolutely relevant to the 2005 Toyota Avensis (T25). The Toyota Europe TechDoc for the Avensis T25 (2003–2008) specifies a MacPherson strut front suspension, which by design uses a top mount with an integrated bearing. The Haynes Owners Workshop Manual for Toyota Avensis 2003–2008 also covers inspection and replacement of the front strut top mount/bearing. So yes—your 2005 Toyota Avensis runs front strut mounts.

On this Avensis, the front strut mounts do two big jobs: they isolate vibration and road noise from the cabin, and they let the strut turn smoothly with the steering via a built-in bearing. They also keep the spring located correctly and help maintain precise wheel alignment, which shows up as better steering feel and tidy tyre wear. Because they’re part of the steering axis, when they get tired the car can feel vague or “notchy”.

Common signs the 2005 Avensis strut mounts are due for attention include:

• Clunks or thuds over bumps, especially from the top of the strut towers
• Creaks or groans at low-speed steering lock-to-lock
• Heavy, sticky, or delayed steering return-to-centre
• Tyre cupping or feathering and wandering on the motorway
• Visible perishing or cracking of the rubber, or top mount movement under the bonnet

There isn’t a strict replacement interval, but in Aussie and Kiwi conditions it’s smart to inspect the mounts at each major service and any time the front struts or springs are out. Many owners see replacement somewhere around 100,000–150,000 km, sooner if the roads are rough or the vehicle tows often.

Best practice when replacing? Do both front mounts as a pair, and include the bearing (it’s often part of the mount). It’s also a good time to fit new dust boots and bump stops, check spring orientation, and tighten the hardware with the vehicle at normal ride height. Finish with a wheel alignment to protect your tyres. If the top nut is a nyloc type, don’t reuse it. And because front coils store a heap of energy, use proper spring compressors or let a pro handle the job.

Note: the 2005 Avensis rear uses a multi-link/double-wishbone layout with separate shock absorbers, so it has shock mounts rather than “strut” mounts out back. Those rear mounts can age too, but they’re a different part from the front strut top mounts.

Popular questions about 2005 Toyota Avensis strut mounts

How do you tell if the front strut mounts are shot on a 2005 Avensis?

Listen for a knock over sharp bumps and a creak when turning at low speed, then look under the bonnet for cracked rubber or movement at the top of the strut. A notchy feel in the steering and uneven tyre wear are also big clues.

If in doubt, a mechanic can load the suspension and feel for play while someone turns the wheel. They’ll also check the bearing action and the spring seat for binding.

Should the strut mounts be replaced when doing new front struts?

It’s a good idea. The labour overlaps, the bearings age with the struts, and fresh mounts help the new dampers do their best work. It often saves money versus pulling it apart twice.

Many workshops recommend replacing mounts, bearings, boots and bump stops together, then finishing with a wheel alignment to keep tyres happy.

Do the rear suspension on a 2005 Avensis have strut mounts too?

The rear on this model uses separate shock absorbers, so you’re looking at rear shock mounts, not strut mounts. Different part, different job, but still worth checking for perished rubber or clunks.

If the rear makes noise over bumps or the shock tops look cracked, plan on new rear mounts along with the shocks.