Parts for your 2008 Mazda 6-Strut mounts

2008 Mazda 6 strut-mounts: what they do and when to replace them

Strut-mounts are definitely used on the 2008 Mazda 6. The front suspension is a MacPherson strut design, which relies on a dedicated upper strut mount with an integrated bearing to let the strut turn as the steering moves. This is documented in the Mazda 6 workshop manuals (GG/GY and GH platforms, Front Suspension – MacPherson Strut). Major fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe also list front strut-mount kits for the 2008 Mazda 6. The rear of this model uses a multi‑link layout with separate shock absorbers, so rear “strut-mounts” aren’t applicable—only front ones are.

On the 2008-mazda-6, the front strut-mounts do three key jobs: they isolate road noise and vibration from the cabin, they secure the top of the strut to the body, and their bearing lets the strut rotate smoothly for precise steering. When the rubber insulator or bearing wears, drivers can feel clunks over bumps, hear creaks when turning, or notice vague steering and “memory steer”.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the front strut-mounts every 20,000–30,000 km, especially if the car sees rough roads. Many last 100,000–160,000 km, but age, heat, and heavy loads can speed up wear. If the struts are due, doing the mounts at the same time makes sense—labour overlaps and it helps the fresh dampers work properly.

• Common signs they’re tired: knocking over potholes, a graunch or creak while parking, steering that won’t self‑centre cleanly, uneven tyre wear, or visible cracking in the mount rubber.
• Good practice: replace mounts in pairs, use quality kits with new bearings, and fit new bump stops/dust boots if they’re perished.
• After any front mount/strut work, book a wheel alignment.

Replacement needs a spring compressor and careful handling—there’s serious stored energy in a compressed coil spring. Follow Mazda torque specs, avoid spinning the strut piston with an impact gun, and final‑tighten pivot bush fasteners at normal ride height. A workshop that knows Mazda suspension can check the mounts, advise on brands that suit Aussie and Kiwi conditions, and get the 2008 Mazda 6 feeling tight and quiet again.

Popular questions about 2008-mazda-6 strut-mounts

Does a 2008 Mazda 6 have strut-mounts front and rear?
Yes up front, no down the back. The front is MacPherson strut with a proper strut-mount and bearing. The rear uses a multi-link setup with separate shocks that have simple upper/lower mounts, not strut-mounts.

How long do front strut-mounts last on a 2008 Mazda 6?
Often 100,000–160,000 km, but city kerbs, corrugations, and age can bring that forward. If there are clunks, creaks while steering, or the steering won’t self‑centre, have them checked sooner rather than later.

Should strut-mounts be replaced with the struts?
Ideally, yes. Labour overlaps, and a fresh mount and bearing help the new strut perform and steer smoothly. Replace in pairs and get an alignment straight after.