Parts for your 2006 Mazda Axela-Strut mounts

2006 Mazda Axela (Mazda3 BK) Strut Mounts — What They Do and When to Replace

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant on the 2006 Mazda Axela. Technical references confirm it: the Mazda3/Axela (BK, 2003–2009) Workshop Manual describes a MacPherson strut front suspension with an upper “mounting rubber” and a separate strut bearing at the strut tower. The Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (BK Axela) also lists the front “shock absorber mount” and “bearing.” The rear of this model is a multi-link design with separate shocks and springs, so there are no rear strut mounts—just shock mounts/bushes.

Up front, the strut mounts sit at the top of the strut assembly. They isolate vibration and noise, hold the strut firmly to the body, and (with the integrated bearing) let the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. When they’re in good nick, the steering feels light and consistent, and the cabin stays quiet over rough roads. When they’re tired, you’ll often notice clunks over speed humps, creaks at low speed, vague steering, or a notchy feel as the wheel’s turned. Uneven tyre wear or a steering wheel that doesn’t return cleanly to centre can also point to worn mounts or bearings.

Best practice on a 2006 Axela is to replace strut mounts whenever the front struts are replaced, or if there are clear symptoms. They cop a lot of load and heat, so pairing fresh mounts with new struts keeps everything tight and quiet. Many owners see long life from OE mounts, but by 100–150,000 km they’re often due, especially with rough roads or heavier wheels and tyres.

• Listen/feel for: front-end clunks, creaks, steering notchiness, vibration through the wheel, or feathered tyre edges.
• Service tips: replace mounts in pairs, inspect/replace the strut bearings and dust boots, and use a proper spring compressor.
• After fitment: get a wheel alignment—ride height and camber/caster can shift slightly when fresh mounts settle.
• Torque checks: tighten hardware to manufacturer spec with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid bush preload.

Because the rear isn’t a strut layout, “rear strut mounts” don’t apply to this Axela. If there’s a rear rattle, the target is usually the upper shock mount/bush or a sway bar link, not a strut top.

FAQs

Do the rear shocks have strut mounts on a 2006 Mazda Axela?
No. The rear is a multi-link setup with separate shocks and springs. It uses shock mounts/bushes, not strut mounts. If there’s noise out back, check the shock upper mount, sway bar links, and control arm bushes.

How long do front strut mounts typically last?
It varies with roads and loads, but many Axelas need mounts and bearings by around 100–150,000 km. If you’re fitting new front struts, doing mounts and bearings at the same time is smart, even if they’re not yet noisy.

Will replacing strut mounts affect wheel alignment?
Yes. Fresh mounts can alter ride height and geometry slightly, so a post-job alignment is recommended to keep tyre wear even and the steering tracking straight.