Parts for your 2012 Toyota Hilux-Strut mounts

2012 Toyota Hilux strut mounts — what they do and when to sort them

Yes, the 2012 Toyota Hilux uses what most workshops call “strut mounts” at the top of the front coil-over shock assemblies. Toyota’s technical literature describes the front setup as a double-wishbone independent suspension with a “front shock absorber with coil spring” bolted to the body via a “front shock absorber support (upper support)”. That upper support is the strut mount in everyday terms. Because the Hilux isn’t a MacPherson-strut design, the mount doesn’t carry a steering bearing, it’s a heavy-duty rubber/insulated top mount that locates the damper and isolates noise and vibration. This is supported by the Toyota Repair Manual (Chassis/Suspension sections for 2005–2015 Hilux), the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for the front shock absorber support sub-assembly, and major aftermarket catalogues that supply Hilux-specific top mounts.

On a 2012 Hilux, the strut mount’s job is to secure the top of the coil-over, cushion impacts, and keep road noise and harshness out of the cabin. Over time, the rubber can harden, crack, or collapse, which shows up as clunks over corrugations, a dull knock on take-off or braking, or a more crashy ride even with good shocks. Because the mount doesn’t rotate with steering on this platform, groaning while turning is less common than on vehicles with MacPherson struts.

For servicing, it’s smart to inspect the strut mounts whenever front shocks, coils, or upper control arms are touched—especially if the ute tows, carries loads, or sees gravel and off-road work. Look for perished rubber, separated bonding, distorted metal cups, or signs the top hat has been hammering its seat. If the shock is being replaced, consider new mounts at the same time, it’s cost-effective while the assembly is out.

• Typical symptoms: front-end clunking, increased vibration, harsh ride, visible cracking or collapse at the top mount.
• Good practice: replace mounts in pairs, use a quality spring compressor, align the arrows/orientation as marked, torque to spec with the vehicle at normal ride height, and get a wheel alignment afterwards.
• Service tip: after a suspension lift or fresh coils, recheck top nut torque once the springs have settled a few hundred kilometres.

Kept in good nick, Hilux strut mounts usually last a long time, but high kilometres, corrugations, and heavier accessories (bar, winch) can bring forward replacement.

Popular questions about 2012 Toyota Hilux strut mounts

Do 2012 Hilux models actually have strut mounts?

They do. The front suspension uses a coil-over shock with an upper support that most techs call a strut mount. It doesn’t house a steering bearing like a MacPherson setup, but it’s still the top mount that locates and insulates the assembly.

How long should Hilux strut mounts last?

In typical Aussie and Kiwi use they can run well past 100,000 km, but heavy loads, corrugated roads, and off-road work can age the rubber faster. Inspect them any time shocks are changed, after a lift, or if front-end noises develop.

Should the mounts be replaced when fitting new front shocks or a lift kit?

It’s a good idea. New shocks and coils put fresh load into old rubber. Replacing the mounts while the struts are out is cheap insurance for noise-free operation and helps the new suspension feel tight from day one.