Parts for your 2011 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Strut mounts

2011 Toyota Vitz/Yaris strut-mounts: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2011 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (NCP130/NCP131 series) uses MacPherson struts on the front axle, which means it does have front strut mounts. Toyota’s New Car Features and Repair Manual for the NCP130 series, along with the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), list a “Front Suspension Support Sub-Assembly” and a separate strut bearing for this model. Independent references such as Haynes and Autodata also describe the Vitz/Yaris front suspension as a MacPherson strut design with an upper mount and bearing. The rear is a torsion beam with separate dampers, so there are no rear strut mounts on this vehicle.

On a 2011 Vitz/Yaris, the front strut mounts sit at the top of the strut assembly and bolt through the strut towers. They do two key jobs: isolate noise and vibration from the cabin, and provide a smooth, low-friction pivot for the strut to turn with the steering. The integrated bearing allows the spring and strut to rotate freely, giving light, precise steering with no graunching or notchiness.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the mounts any time the front end is up in the air—particularly if the roads are rough or the car carries loads. Look and listen for tell-tales like clunks over bumps, creaks when turning the wheel at parking speeds, imprecise steering return-to-centre, or visible rubber cracking around the mount. If the bearing binds, drivers may notice “memory steer” or a twitchy on-centre feel.

Replacement is typically done in pairs on the front to keep steering feel consistent left-to-right. Many technicians fit new mounts and bearings whenever front struts are replaced, because the labour overlaps and tired mounts can shorten the life of new dampers. After any mount or strut work, a wheel alignment is a must to protect tyre wear and keep it tracking straight.

There’s no fixed kilometre interval, but on Aussie and Kiwi roads a practical window is 80,000–120,000 km, sooner if there’s noise, play, or perished rubber. Quality OE-equivalent mounts and bearings will restore the quiet ride and crisp steering the Vitz/Yaris is known for. When installing, torque the top mount nuts and strut-to-knuckle bolts to the factory spec and ensure the spring is correctly indexed in the seat to avoid twangs and uneven ride height.

• Symptoms of worn mounts: clunks, creaks, steering notchiness, uneven tyre wear, vague on-centre feel
• Best practice: replace mounts with new struts, do both fronts, finish with a wheel alignment

Do 2011 Toyota Vitz/Yaris models have strut mounts?

Yes. The 2011 Vitz/Yaris uses MacPherson struts up front, which require an upper strut mount and bearing. The rear uses shocks on a torsion beam, so no rear strut mounts.

How long do front strut mounts last on a 2011 Vitz/Yaris?

Commonly 80,000–120,000 km depending on roads and loads. Inspect at each service for noise, binding, or rubber cracking, and replace in pairs when they show wear.

Should strut mounts be replaced with struts on a Yaris/Vitz?

It’s good practice. Fitting new mounts and bearings with new front struts restores steering feel, reduces NVH, and helps protect tyre wear. Always follow up with a wheel alignment.