Parts for your 2006 Honda Odyssey-Strut mounts

2006 Honda Odyssey strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

For the 2006 Honda Odyssey, strut mounts are absolutely relevant — but only at the front. Technical sources including the 2005–2010 Honda Odyssey Service Manual (Helm Inc.), Honda Genuine Parts catalogues, and suspension application guides from Monroe and KYB all specify a front MacPherson strut layout and a separate rear shock and spring arrangement. That means front strut mounts (with integrated bearings) are fitted, while the rear uses shock mounts rather than strut mounts.

On the front of the Odyssey, the strut mount is the top interface between the strut assembly and the body. It carries vehicle weight through the coil spring, isolates noise and vibration with a rubber insulator, and, thanks to an internal bearing, lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When the mount or bearing wears, you’ll often hear clunks over bumps, creaks on low-speed turns, or feel notchy steering and poor self‑centring.

They’re not a throwaway part, but they do age. Heat, load and our coarse-chip roads across Aus and NZ can harden the rubber and pit the bearing over time. A good rule of thumb is to inspect them any time the front struts are out, and strongly consider replacing mounts when fitting new struts, especially after 120,000–160,000 km or if there’s any noise, cracked rubber, or play.

• Common symptoms: clunking on bumps, groaning while turning at parking speeds, steering bind or wander, and uneven tyre wear if the mount has excess play.
• Best practice: replace in pairs, use quality OE-equivalent mounts with new bearings, and renew dust boots and bump stops while you’re there.
• Safety tip: compressing coil springs requires the right tool and care. If in doubt, leave it to a pro.

After any strut or mount work, a wheel alignment is a smart move. It keeps tyre wear even and ensures the Odyssey tracks straight. Torque the top mount and strut-to-knuckle fasteners to spec, recheck after a short shakedown, and listen for any residual noises. With fresh mounts, the family bus will feel quieter, steer smoother, and put up with school runs and holiday roadies without the creaks.

FAQs

Does a 2006 Honda Odyssey have strut mounts front and rear?
The Odyssey has strut mounts at the front only. The rear uses separate shocks and springs, so there are no rear strut mounts to replace — just rear shock upper and lower mounts.

What are the signs my Odyssey’s front strut mounts are worn?
Listen for clunks over small bumps, creaks at low-speed steering, or feel for notchy steering and poor return-to-centre. You might also see cracked rubber around the mount or notice uneven front tyre wear from excess play.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Yes, it’s recommended. Disturbing the strut-to-knuckle area can nudge camber and toe. An alignment helps the Odyssey drive straight and protects those tyres.