Parts for your 2010 Lexus Is-Struts

2010 Lexus IS struts — are they fitted, and what should owners know?

Based on Lexus technical literature (Lexus IS New Car Features for XE20 series) and the factory Repair Manual used by dealers, the 2010 Lexus IS (including IS 250, IS 350 and IS F) does not use MacPherson struts. Up front it runs a double wishbone suspension, and at the rear it uses a multi-link setup. Reputable automotive tech sources and road tests of the era also document the same layout, which means “struts” aren’t the load‑bearing, steering-axis components on this model.

Why no struts? Lexus chose double wishbone and multi-link hardware to sharpen handling and ride quality in a rear‑wheel drive platform. A wishbone front end lets engineers better control camber change through the stroke, so the tyre keeps a fatter contact patch in corners. It also helps achieve a lower bonnet line and more precise steering feel. The rear multi-link adds fine control of toe and camber under load, improving stability without turning the ride harsh.

Owners will still find coil springs with shock absorbers (dampers) at each corner — sometimes sold colloquially as “struts” — but they’re not MacPherson struts. If the car has Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), the dampers are electronically controlled, yet the architecture remains wishbone/multi‑link rather than strut‑type.

Shopping or servicing? It’s best to search for front and rear shock absorbers, top mounts, bump stops and dust boots that suit the 2010 Lexus IS, plus related hardware like control arm bushes, ball joints and stabiliser links. Replacing dampers in axle pairs, torquing bushes at normal ride height, and performing a four‑wheel alignment after work are all smart moves. For AVS‑equipped cars, choose compatible dampers so the system and dash warnings behave as they should.

Typical signs that the IS needs damper attention include:

• Oil misting/leaks on the shock body
• Floaty ride, excessive bounce or nose‑dive
• Clunks over bumps, cupped tyre wear, or longer stopping distances

There’s no strict replacement interval, but many owners in Australia and New Zealand start assessing damper performance from around 80,000–120,000 km, sooner if roads are rough or the vehicle tows or carries loads regularly. Keeping the suspension fresh preserves the Lexus’ tidy handling and keeps tyres wearing evenly.

Does a 2010 Lexus IS have struts?

No. The 2010 Lexus IS uses a double wishbone front and multi‑link rear suspension. It has shock absorbers with coils, but not MacPherson struts.

What should be replaced if the 2010 IS feels bouncy or crashy?

Start with the shock absorbers (and top mounts, bump stops and dust boots). Also check stabiliser links, control arm bushes and ball joints. After any suspension work, get a wheel alignment. If the car has AVS, fit AVS‑compatible dampers.

When should the shocks be changed on a 2010 Lexus IS?

There’s no fixed kilometre limit. Inspect from 80,000–120,000 km and replace if there are leaks, poor damping control, uneven tyre wear, clunks or excessive dive/float. Local road conditions in AU/NZ can bring that forward.