Parts for your 2008 Toyota Bb-Strut mounts

2008 Toyota bB strut-mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Strut-mounts are absolutely relevant on the 2008 Toyota bB. Technical documentation confirms the front suspension is MacPherson strut, which uses an upper support/mount with an integrated bearing. See: Toyota bB Repair Manual (QNC20/21/25) — Front Suspension, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) listing “Front Suspension Support Sub-Assembly,” PNC 48609, and the Daihatsu Materia/Coo service manual (same platform), all of which specify a front strut top support/bearing. Aftermarket catalogues for the bB also list direct-fit front strut-mount kits.

On this model, the strut-mount sits at the top of the front strut under the bonnet. It secures the strut to the body, houses a bearing so the strut can turn smoothly with the steering, and cushions road harshness so the cabin doesn’t cop every bump. Good mounts keep steering feel tidy, isolate vibration, and help the bB track straight.

They’re wear items. The rubber can crack or compress, and the bearing can dry out or bind. On Aussie and Kiwi roads, they typically last anywhere from 80,000–150,000 km, but city potholes and gravel work can shorten that. Most workshops replace strut-mounts whenever fitting new front struts, because a tired mount can quickly spoil the feel of fresh dampers.

• Common signs they’re shot: clunks over sharp bumps, a dull knock on take-off or braking, notchy or heavy steering, a “memory steer” feel after turning, vague front-end, and irregular tyre wear.
• Best practice: replace in pairs, use quality OE-spec mounts, and get a wheel alignment straight after.

Replacement needs a proper spring compressor and the right torque specs from the repair manual. The top nut and any single-use fasteners should be renewed. Pay attention to mount orientation marks so the bearing tracks correctly. The bearing is sealed, so there’s no greasing, maintenance is really just periodic inspection for perished rubber, play at the top of the strut, or corrosion on the studs.

Because the 2008 bB runs a torsion-beam rear with separate shocks, there are no rear strut-mounts to worry about. Focus inspections up front: during servicing, have the tech check for cracking around the top hats, listen for knocks on a road test, and review tyre wear. If you’re chasing sharper steering and a quieter ride, fresh strut-mounts with new struts can make the bB feel new again.

FAQs

Does the 2008 Toyota bB have rear strut-mounts?
No. The 2008 bB (QNC20/21) uses a torsion-beam rear axle with separate shock absorbers, so there are no rear strut-mounts. Only the front MacPherson struts use strut-mounts with bearings.

How long do front strut-mounts last on a bB in Australia or New Zealand?
Expect roughly 80,000–150,000 km, depending on road quality and load. Frequent potholes, speed humps, or gravel can accelerate wear. Many owners renew mounts when changing front struts to restore steering feel and cabin comfort.

Can worn strut-mounts cause steering or alignment issues?
Yes. A binding mount bearing can make steering feel heavy or “stick,” while collapsed rubber can alter ride height slightly and affect camber or caster. That’s why a wheel alignment is recommended after any front strut-mount or strut replacement.