Parts for your 2012 Toyota Rav4-Strut mounts

2012 Toyota RAV4 strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2012 Toyota RAV4 uses front strut mounts. Toyota’s repair manual (TIS) for the XA30 RAV4 specifies a MacPherson-strut front suspension with a Front Suspension Support (strut mount) and an upper bearing at the top of the strut. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists this support as a service part for 2012 models, and suspension fitment guides from brands like KYB and Monroe also list direct-replacement front strut mounts for this vehicle. The rear uses a double-wishbone layout with separate spring and shock, so there’s no rear strut mount.

The front strut mounts on a 2012 Toyota RAV4 do a quiet but crucial job. Sitting at the top of each front strut under the bonnet, they bolt the strut to the body, carry vehicle weight, and isolate vibration so the cabin doesn’t cop every bump. There’s also a bearing inside the mount that lets the strut swivel smoothly as the wheels steer. When the rubber insulator perishes or the bearing wears, the RAV4 can feel harsh, noisy, or vague through the wheel.

On Aussie and Kiwi roads, expect strut mounts to last anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 km, depending on load, terrain, and tyre choice. They’re best inspected whenever front shocks/struts are replaced, or if there are new steering or ride complaints. Because the bearing is loaded every time the wheel turns, city driving with lots of parking manoeuvres can age them faster.

• Tell-tales of wear: clunks over speed bumps, a dull knock on take-off or braking, a spring “twang” when turning, notchy steering, or the wheel not self-centring properly.
• Visual clues: cracked or collapsed rubber, rust staining around the mount, or play at the top of the strut.

Replacement is usually done in pairs with new front struts, bump stops and dust boots. The coil spring is under serious tension, so a proper spring compressor and the right torque specs are non-negotiable—this is a job for a competent tech. After fitment, a wheel alignment is essential to keep tyre wear in check and steering straight. Go for quality OEM or reputable aftermarket mounts, cheapies can creak early or develop memory steer.

As part of regular servicing, ask for a quick check of the front mounts during brake or tyre rotations. A tidy mount keeps the RAV4 quiet, steers sweetly, and saves the new struts from premature grief.

Popular questions about 2012 Toyota RAV4 strut mounts

Do both front strut mounts need replacing together?
Best practice is to replace them in pairs. Both sides cop the same age and kilometres, and doing one side only can leave uneven steering feel or noise. If the struts are due, it’s smart value to fit new mounts, bearings, bump stops and boots at the same time and follow up with a wheel alignment.

Are there strut mounts on the rear of a 2012 RAV4?
No. The rear suspension is a double-wishbone with a separate coil spring and shock absorber. There’s no MacPherson strut at the rear, so no rear strut mount. Rear top shock mounts do exist, but they’re different parts to front strut mounts.

What symptoms point to a failing strut mount bearing?
A worn bearing often shows up as notchy, heavy or creaky steering, a spring “ping” when turning at low speeds, or the steering wheel not returning to centre cleanly. You might also hear a clunk over small bumps. If these pop up, get a suspension inspection before the issues chew out tyres or affect braking stability.