Parts for your 2011 Volkswagen Amarok-Strut mounts

2011 Volkswagen Amarok strut-mounts — what’s actually fitted

For the 2011 Volkswagen Amarok, traditional strut-mounts aren’t used. Up front, the Amarok runs a double-wishbone (upper and lower control arm) independent suspension with a coil-over shock absorber, not a MacPherson strut. Because there’s no MacPherson strut, there’s no strut top bearing or classic “strut-mount” assembly to service. This layout is confirmed in Volkswagen’s workshop literature (ElsaWin, Group 40 – Front Suspension) and parts listings (VW ETKA for Amarok 2H platform), which describe a shock absorber with spring and an upper rubber/metal isolator rather than a rotating strut mount. Volkswagen’s Self-Study material for Amarok design likewise outlines the double-wishbone architecture.

Why does the Amarok skip strut-mounts? In a MacPherson setup, the strut is a load-bearing, steering component, so it needs a dedicated mount and bearing at the body. The Amarok’s double-wishbone design carries corner loads through the control arms, while the coil-over shock manages damping and springing. Steering loads go through the knuckle and ball joints, not a strut top. That’s a strong, off-road-friendly arrangement for a ute that tows and carries big loads.

Here’s what the 2011 Amarok actually uses instead of strut-mounts:

• Double-wishbone front suspension with upper and lower control arms
• Coil-over shock absorber with an upper rubber/metal isolator (not a strut bearing)
• Steering knuckle with ball joints, no rotating top mount
• Rear leaf springs with separate shock absorbers (no struts at the rear either)

Servicing tips for owners chasing a knock or creak up front: look to the front shock absorber upper bush/isolator, lower control arm bushes, sway-bar links, and ball joints. If there’s a thunk over speed humps, visible cracking in the upper shock bush, or oily dampers, it’s time for inspection. When replacing front shocks or upper bushes, use quality components and new hardware where specified in the workshop manual, and have a wheel alignment done afterwards. For heavy touring or off-road work, periodic checks every 10,000–15,000 km help keep things tight and quiet.

Bottom line: “strut-mounts” as a part category doesn’t apply to the 2011 Amarok. What matters is the condition of the shock absorber assemblies and the surrounding control arm and mounting bushes.

FAQs

Does a 2011 Volkswagen Amarok have strut-mounts?

No. The Amarok uses double-wishbone front suspension with a coil-over shock absorber, so there’s no MacPherson strut and no traditional strut top bearing/mount. The upper interface is a rubber/metal isolator for the shock, as noted in VW’s workshop documentation (ElsaWin, Group 40) and parts catalogue (ETKA).

What should be serviced instead of strut-mounts on an Amarok?

Focus on the front shock absorber upper bushes/isolators, lower control arm bushes, sway-bar links, ball joints, and the shocks themselves. If there are clunks, squeaks, or uneven tyre wear, have these items inspected. Replace any cracked or perished bushes and consider new shocks if there’s oil leakage or poor damping.

Why do some listings show “strut-mounts” for an Amarok?

It’s often a naming mix-up. Some aftermarket catalogues label the front shock’s top bush/isolator as a “strut mount”. The Amarok doesn’t use a rotating strut bearing like a MacPherson setup, if buying parts, match them to the shock absorber upper mount/bush for the 2H Amarok platform and verify with OE part references.