Parts for your 2012 Mazda 6-Strut mounts

2012 Mazda 6 strut-mounts — what they do and when to replace

Yes, the 2012 Mazda 6 uses strut-mounts on the front suspension. Technical references including the Mazda 6 (GH) workshop manual and major parts catalogues from OE suppliers and brands like KYB and Monroe confirm a MacPherson front strut with an upper mount and bearing assembly. The rear of this model uses a multi-link setup with separate shocks and coil springs, so rear strut-mounts aren’t applicable.

Up front, the strut-mounts do more than just hold things together. They isolate vibration and road harshness from the cabin, keep the strut securely attached to the body, and on the steering axle they incorporate a bearing to let the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels are turned. Good strut-mounts mean crisp steering feel, quieter operation over bumps, and alignment that stays where it should.

Over time, the rubber insulator can harden or crack, and the bearing can dry out or bind. That shows up as clunks over speed humps, a groan or creak when turning at parking speeds, a vague or wandering steering feel, or uneven tyre wear that keeps sneaking back after an alignment.

As part of servicing a 2012 Mazda 6, it’s smart to inspect the front strut-mounts whenever the struts, springs, or front brakes are off. Look for perished rubber, split insulators, rusty or collapsed top plates, and any notchiness when the strut is turned. If the car’s nudging 100,000–150,000 kilometres, or the front struts are being replaced, fitting new strut-mounts as a pair is good preventative maintenance. It’s low extra labour when the struts are already out, and it helps protect fresh dampers.

Replacement is a job for the right tools (spring compressors) and the correct procedures from the workshop manual. Always use new self-locking nuts where specified, seat the spring correctly in the perch, and have a proper wheel alignment done afterwards. For the rear, think in terms of shock mounts and upper insulators rather than strut-mounts.

Signs it’s time to sort the strut-mounts on a 2012 Mazda 6 include:

• Clunking, knocking, or a dull thud over bumps
• Creaking or groaning when turning the wheel at low speed
• Steering that doesn’t self-centre cleanly or feels notchy
• Persistent or uneven front tyre wear

Do the rear suspension components use strut-mounts on a 2012 Mazda 6?

No. The rear is a multi-link arrangement with separate shocks and springs, so there are shock mounts/insulators rather than strut-mounts. Only the front has strut-mounts with an integrated bearing for steering rotation.

How long do front strut-mounts typically last on this model?

Many last 100,000–150,000 kilometres, but life depends on road conditions, loads, and whether the struts are still in good nick. If the car sees rough roads or speed humps daily, expect earlier wear. Replace them when symptoms show, or proactively when fitting new front struts.

Should strut-mounts be replaced whenever the front struts are changed?

It’s highly recommended. New struts paired with tired mounts can leave noises and steering feel unchanged. Fresh mounts and bearings help the new dampers perform properly and reduce the chance of a comeback for noise or alignment complaints.