Parts for your 2012 Toyota Mark x-Struts

2012 Toyota Mark X struts — are they actually a thing?

Short answer: no, the 2012 Toyota Mark X doesn’t use MacPherson struts. Toyota’s own technical material (GRX130/GRX133 Repair Manual, Suspension section) and the Mark X factory press/technical overview for the X130 series confirm a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue diagrams for GRX13# models also show separate upper and lower arms with a shock absorber and coil spring, not a structural strut.

That’s why “struts” aren’t really relevant on this model. In a MacPherson layout, the strut is a load-bearing structural member that locates the wheel. The Mark X’s double-wishbone front end uses two control arms to position the wheel, with a damper and spring handling the bump control. Out back, the multi-link setup again uses arms for location with a shock and coil. Toyota chose this arrangement to sharpen steering feel, keep camber more consistent through travel, and deliver that planted rear-drive balance the Mark X is known for. It’s a more premium, dynamic solution than a basic strut layout, and it suits the car’s V6 packaging as well.

So if someone’s searching for “2012 Toyota Mark X struts”, they’re usually after the front shocks, top mounts/insulators, or related hardware. On these cars, servicing focuses on dampers, springs, bushings and joints rather than swapping a complete strut assembly.

Good maintenance habits for a GRX130 Mark X include:

• Inspect front and rear shock absorbers for oil seepage, dented bodies, or perished dust boots and bump stops.
• Check upper/lower control arm bushes and ball joints for play, listen for clunks over sharp bumps.
• Look for uneven tyre wear, extra brake dive, float, or longer stopping distances — all classic tired-damper clues.
• Replace shock absorber top mounts/insulators if there’s knocking or visible cracking.
• Renew stabiliser (sway bar) links and bushes if there’s rattle or roll feels loose.

As a rule of thumb, quality dampers can be past their best by 80,000–120,000 kilometres depending on roads and loads. When replacing shocks or suspension arms, always follow torque specs from the Toyota workshop manual and get a wheel alignment straight after. That’ll keep steering feel tidy and protect those tyres. If upgrading to coilovers, choose kits designed for the Mark X’s wishbone/multi-link architecture, and make sure they’re compliant with local regs in Australia or New Zealand.

Popular questions about 2012 Toyota Mark X “struts”

Does a 2012 Toyota Mark X have struts?
No. It runs a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear, so it uses shock absorbers with coil springs rather than MacPherson struts. This is noted in Toyota’s GRX130/133 Repair Manual and period technical briefs for the X130 Mark X.

What should be serviced instead of struts on a 2012 Mark X?
Focus on front and rear shock absorbers, top mounts/insulators, control arm bushes and ball joints, and stabiliser links and bushes. After any suspension work, book a wheel alignment to keep handling sweet and tyre wear even.

Can coilovers be fitted, and do they count as struts?
Coilovers can be fitted, but they don’t turn the car into a strut-type suspension — the geometry stays wishbone/multi-link. Choose reputable, vehicle-specific kits and ensure the setup is legal for your state or for NZ certification. An alignment afterwards is a must.