Parts for your 2010 Mazda Premacy-Strut mounts

2010 Mazda Premacy strut mounts: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm that the 2010 Mazda Premacy (Mazda5 in some markets) uses front MacPherson struts with upper strut mounts and bearings. This is documented in the Mazda Premacy/Mazda5 Workshop Manual (Front Suspension section), reflected in the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue under “Front Shock Absorber Mounting Insulator,” and supported by major aftermarket catalogues (KYB/Monroe) listing front strut mounts for this model. The rear uses separate shock absorbers with upper mounts, not strut-type mounts.

On the front of a 2010 Premacy, the strut mount sits at the top of the strut, sandwiching the body’s strut tower. It’s a combo of a rubber insulator and a bearing plate, so it does two big jobs: it isolates bumps and road noise from the cabin, and it lets the strut smoothly swivel as the wheels steer. Good mounts keep the steering light and precise, while soaking up harshness so the car feels tight and quiet.

If the rubber in the mount wears, cracks or compresses, or if the bearing gets gritty, the car can develop knocks over bumps, creaks or groans when turning at low speed, and vague on-centre steering. Because the mount locates the top of the suspension, excessive play can also lead to odd tyre wear and a front end that just doesn’t feel settled on corrugations or rough Kiwi and Aussie back roads.

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop: the strut is removed, the spring is safely compressed, then the mount and bearing are swapped. It’s wise to replace mounts in pairs and to fit new self-locking top nuts. Many owners choose to do struts, bump stops and dust boots at the same time to save on labour and keep everything fresh. Once it’s back together, a wheel alignment is a must. Expect inspection around every 60–80,000 km during routine servicing, with many mounts lasting 100–150,000 km depending on road conditions, loads and driving style.

There’s no real maintenance to perform on the mount itself—the bearing is sealed—but regular checks during services help catch issues early. Sticking with OE-style rubber mounts keeps NVH in check, polyurethane can transmit more vibration. Pay attention to orientation marks when installing, and if the old mount looks “mushroomed” or the bearing feels notchy, don’t reuse it.

• Common signs it’s time: clunks over bumps, creaks when turning, heavy or “memory” steering, and uneven front tyre wear.
• Best practice: replace in pairs, add an alignment, and inspect sway bar links and top hats while you’re in there.

FAQs

How long do front strut mounts last on a 2010 Mazda Premacy?
In local conditions, many last 100–150,000 km, but rough roads, heavy loads and big potholes can bring that forward. Have them inspected at each major service or when you notice new noises or steering weight changes.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Any time the strut assembly comes out, the camber and toe can shift. A post-job alignment protects tyres and makes sure the car tracks straight and feels right.

Can I replace just the mount without changing the strut?
Yes, provided the strut itself isn’t leaking or weak. If the car’s done big kilometres, doing mounts, bearings, bump stops and dust boots with new struts can be smarter value on labour and long-term feel.