Parts for your 2005 Toyota Hilux-Strut mounts

2005 Toyota Hilux strut mounts — what they are and when to replace them

Based on technical references including the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2005–2011 Hilux (AN10/AN20 series, e.g., KUN/GGN models) listing the “Support Sub‑Assembly, Front Shock Absorber” as the upper mount, the Toyota Repair Manual for the Double Wishbone Front Suspension, and common aftermarket catalogues from KYB and Monroe that specify front upper mounts for this ute, strut mounts are indeed fitted to the 2005 Toyota Hilux. They function as the upper support for the front coilover shock assemblies.

On the 2005 Hilux, the front end runs a double wishbone independent setup with a coilover shock. The “strut mount” (often called the top mount or top hat) is the rubberised support and metal plate that bolts the coilover assembly to the chassis tower. Unlike a MacPherson strut car, the Hilux doesn’t steer on a strut bearing, it steers on upper and lower ball joints. So there’s no rotating bearing in the mount, but the mount still does plenty of work — it locates the shock, isolates vibration, and helps keep road noise and harsh bumps out of the cabin.

Owners will notice a tired top mount as clunks over sharp bumps, a knock at full extension, vague steering feel, or increased vibration. In rough Aussie and Kiwi conditions, constant corrugations, towing, and accessories like bull bars and winches can speed up wear. It’s common to renew the mounts whenever front shocks are replaced, or if there are visible cracks, mushrooming rubber, or metal-to-metal contact.

• Typical service cues: perished rubber, uneven front ride height, or a dull thud over potholes.
• Good practice: replace mounts in pairs to keep side-to-side feel consistent.

When fitting new mounts, use quality parts matched to the vehicle’s build code. Always compress the coil spring safely with proper compressors. Align the spring and mount correctly (pay attention to any locating marks), torque fasteners to spec, and re-check torque at normal ride height. It’s smart to refresh related consumables at the same time — upper spring insulators, bump stops, and dust boots — and book a wheel alignment after the job, especially if the ute sees off-road work or carries extra front-end weight. Done right, fresh mounts help the Hilux track straighter, ride quieter, and keep tyres wearing evenly over many kilometres.

Popular questions

Do 2005 Hilux models actually have strut mounts?
Yes. While the Hilux uses a double wishbone front suspension (not a MacPherson strut), it still uses an upper support for the coilover shock assembly commonly called a strut mount or top mount. There’s no steering bearing in it, but it’s essential for location and vibration isolation.

When should the strut mounts be replaced?
They’re often replaced with the front shocks or when symptoms like clunks, vibration, or cracked rubber appear. Many see replacement somewhere around 150,000–200,000 km, earlier if the ute works hard off-road or carries extra front weight.

Will worn mounts affect alignment or tyre wear?
Indirectly, yes. A sloppy mount can make the front end feel vague and contribute to uneven tyre wear. After any suspension work, including mount replacement, a proper wheel alignment is recommended.