Parts for your 2012 Honda Accord-Strut mounts

2012 Honda Accord strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references — including the Honda Accord 2008–2012 factory service manual (Front Suspension: MacPherson Strut), Honda EPC illustrations for the front shock/strut top mount, and aftermarket fitment guides from KYB and Monroe — strut mounts are fitted to the front suspension on most 2012 Honda Accord models. Note: the 2012 Accord Euro (CU2) uses a double-wishbone front end with a shock top mount rather than a true strut bearing plate. For the mainstream 2012 Accord with MacPherson fronts, this page applies.

On a 2012 Accord with MacPherson struts, the strut mount bolts the top of the strut to the body and isolates noise and vibration from the cabin. The front mounts also house a bearing so the strut can rotate smoothly as the steering turns. That bearing action helps the steering self-centre, keeps alignment stable, and prevents spring “wind-up” that can cause groans or notchy steering. Because the mount carries the vehicle’s corner weight and every turn of the wheel, it’s a small part doing a big job.

As these mounts age, the rubber can crack or compress and the bearing can dry out. Common clues include:

• Clunks or knocks over speed humps or potholes
• Creaks or graunching as you turn the wheel at low speed
• Steering that feels notchy or “memory steer” after a corner
• Uneven tyre wear or a slight pull even after an alignment

Best practice during servicing is to inspect the strut tops any time the front suspension is apart — especially when fitting new struts or springs. If there’s play in the centre, torn rubber, rust staining, or roughness as the mount is rotated by hand, replacement is the go. Most techs recommend replacing mounts in pairs and renewing associated hardware (top nuts, dust boots, bearings if separate). Quality OE-equivalent mounts typically run well past 100,000–150,000 km, but harsh roads or big wheels can shorten that.

If you’re hearing fresh noises after new struts, don’t overlook the mounts — a tired bearing plate can make a brand-new damper feel ordinary. Use proper spring compressors if removing the assembly, torque the top nuts to spec, and book a wheel alignment afterwards to keep the Accord tracking straight and the tyres wearing evenly.

Technical sources referenced: Honda Accord 2008–2012 Service Manual (Front Suspension, MacPherson Strut), Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (front shock/strut top mount and bearing components), KYB Mounting Kit fitment guide for 2008–2012 Accord, Monroe Mounting Catalogue for 2012 Accord.

Popular questions about 2012 Honda Accord strut mounts

Do all 2012 Accords use strut mounts?
Most 2012 Accords with MacPherson front suspension do use strut mounts with an integrated bearing. The 2012 Accord Euro (CU2) uses a double-wishbone layout with a shock top mount rather than a traditional strut bearing plate. Checking the VIN or suspension layout will confirm which setup is on the car.

When should the strut mounts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, but many are replaced between 100,000 and 150,000 km or whenever front struts are renewed. Noises over bumps, steering graunch, or visible rubber cracking are good prompts to replace them in pairs.

Can worn strut mounts affect wheel alignment and tyre wear?
Yes. Excess play or a binding bearing can upset camber/caster stability and steering return, which can lead to feathering or uneven tyre wear. After replacing mounts or struts, a proper alignment helps protect the tyres and ride quality.