Parts for your 2012 Holden Colorado-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2012 Holden Colorado

The 2012 Holden Colorado is a tough and reliable ute built primarily for rugged use, featuring a front suspension setup quite different from passenger cars that commonly use strut-based systems. To answer whether strut mounts are relevant or used on this vehicle, it's important to understand the Colorado's suspension design and how strut mounts typically fit into automotive suspension systems.

The 2012 Holden Colorado utilises a double-wishbone front suspension, rather than a MacPherson strut setup. This means that instead of having struts as part of the front suspension, this ute employs separate shock absorbers and coil springs mounted independently on the front wishbones. Because of this design, there are no struts that require mounting points akin to strut mounts as seen in MacPherson strut suspensions.

Strut mounts are typically found on vehicles with MacPherson strut front suspension systems, where the strut serves both as a shock absorber and a structural part of the suspension geometry. The strut mount then acts as the interface between the strut assembly and the vehicle's chassis, providing a secure attachment point and allowing the suspension to pivot when steering. This design reduces complexity and can save space, but it's more common in passenger cars and SUVs rather than utes or trucks designed for heavy-duty use.

Since the 2012 Holden Colorado employs a double-wishbone setup, each component - coil spring and shock absorber - is mounted separately and uniquely. Shock absorbers are usually connected to the lower wishbone with separate bushings, and coil springs rest in their own perches or isolate mounts. The use of separate components gives the vehicle greater flexibility and load capacity, which is beneficial for off-road driving and carrying heavy loads, something the Colorado is designed for.

This suspension layout means there is no component that would be described or function as a strut mount in the traditional sense. Therefore, there is no strut mount to replace or maintain on a 2012 Holden Colorado. Instead, maintenance focus should be on the condition of shock absorber mounts, bushings, and coil spring seats.

To assist in servicing the suspension of a 2012 Holden Colorado, owners should pay attention to the following points:

• Shock Absorber Mounts: Unlike strut mounts, the shock absorbers are bolted to the lower wishbones and connected at the top to the frame with rubber bushings or mounts. Over time these rubber parts can deteriorate, cause noise during driving, or allow excess play that leads to poor ride quality. Regular inspections can catch worn mounts early so they can be replaced before causing other suspension issues.
• Coil Spring Seats and Isolators: Coil springs sit in specially designed seats or isolators to cushion road shock and reduce noise. These rubber isolators can wear out or compress over time, leading to metal-on-metal contact and rattling sounds. Checking these isolators during routine servicing will help maintain smooth suspension operation.
• Bushings on Wishbones: The front double-wishbone suspension relies heavily on rubber bushings to cushion joints and allow suspension movement while filtering vibrations. Regular checks for cracks, tears, or excessive movement in these bushings are vital to keeping the suspension tight and responsive.

While the 2012 Holden Colorado does not have strut mounts, regular suspension maintenance remains important for handling, comfort, and safety. Proper inspection of shock mounts, coil spring seats, and bushings should form part of every service. Working with a trusted mechanic familiar with the Colorado's setup will ensure the suspension components are in good shape and any worn parts are replaced promptly.

For owners experiencing symptoms such as clunking noises over bumps, uneven tyre wear, or a harsh ride, it's a smart move to have the suspension components well checked. Although not struts or strut mounts, the shock mounts and bushes can wear and cause similar symptoms to what drivers might expect with a failing strut mount on other vehicles.

In short, the 2012 Holden Colorado's front suspension system does not use strut mounts because it is built around a double-wishbone design with separate shocks and springs. This setup suits the ute's utility quite well and shifts attention away from strut maintenance to other critical suspension parts. Maintaining these correctly will ensure the Holden Colorado continues to handle tough conditions with confidence and keeps drivers comfortable and safe on every journey.