Parts for your 2008 Lexus Is-Struts

2008 Lexus IS struts — what’s actually fitted and what owners should know

Based on factory and industry sources, struts aren’t used in the suspension of the 2008 Lexus IS (XE20). The Lexus IS (XE20) workshop manual specifies a double‑wishbone front suspension and a multi‑link rear. Lexus’ global press material for the second‑generation IS, along with major technical overviews and period road tests, all describe control‑arm front geometry rather than a MacPherson strut setup. That means the car runs shock absorbers and coil springs, but the damper units aren’t structural “struts” in the MacPherson sense.

Why did Lexus go this way? A double‑wishbone front end gives precise camber control and sharper steering feel — great for a sports sedan — while the rear multi‑link balances grip and ride comfort. Because the dampers don’t carry the same structural load as a strut, calling them “struts” for this model is technically off the mark. Owners searching for “front struts” for a 2008 IS are usually after front shock absorbers (dampers), upper mounts, or related hardware. Separately, the vehicle does use gas lift struts for the bonnet and boot, but those are body hardware, not suspension.

For servicing and keeping the IS feeling tight on Aussie and Kiwi roads, it’s worth focusing on the right bits:

• Shock absorbers: Check for oil weep, uneven tyre wear, nose‑diving under brakes, or a floaty ride. Many see noticeable wear around 80–120,000 km depending on conditions.
• Upper mounts and bearings: If there’s clunking over bumps or notchy steering return, inspect the mounts when replacing shocks.
• Control‑arm bushes and ball joints: Perish with age and rough surfaces, worn bushes cause steering shimmy and vague turn‑in.
• Sway bar links and bushes: Cheap to replace, big on tightening body control.

Whenever shocks or suspension arms are replaced, a four‑wheel alignment is a must to protect tyres and restore crisp handling. If the bonnet or boot no longer stays up, the gas lift struts are a quick, straightforward swap and make daily use safer and less annoying.

Technical references consulted: Lexus IS (XE20) factory repair manual (front: double‑wishbone, rear: multi‑link), Lexus press/technical information for the second‑generation IS platform, and period road tests/spec sheets from major automotive publications aligning with the same suspension layout.

Popular questions about 2008 Lexus IS struts

Does a 2008 Lexus IS have suspension struts?
No — the 2008 IS uses a double‑wishbone front and multi‑link rear setup with shock absorbers and coil springs. There are no MacPherson struts in the suspension. This is confirmed by the Lexus IS (XE20) workshop manual and Lexus’ platform technical info.

What should be replaced instead of “struts” on a 2008 IS when the ride gets rough?
Look to the shock absorbers (front and rear), upper mounts, sway bar links/bushes, and worn control‑arm bushes or ball joints. These parts restore damping control, reduce clunks, and bring back the IS’s planted feel. Always finish with a proper wheel alignment.

Are there any struts at all on the car?
Yes — but they’re not suspension parts. The bonnet and boot use gas lift struts. If the bonnet or boot sags or won’t stay up, those lift supports are due for replacement, which is a quick fix.