Parts for your 2012 Toyota Wish-Strut mounts

2012 Toyota Wish Strut Mounts — What They Do and When to Replace Them

Yes, strut mounts are used on the 2012 Toyota Wish. Technical references affirm the front suspension is a MacPherson strut design, which requires a top strut mounting with an integrated bearing, while the rear uses a torsion beam with separate shock absorbers (no rear strut mounts). Sources: Toyota Workshop/Repair Manual for the ZGE20/ZGE25 series (Front Suspension — MacPherson Strut), Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for ZGE2# Wish (listing “Front Suspension Support Sub‑Assembly/Strut Mount”), plus major aftermarket catalogues that list front strut mount kits for 2009–2017 Toyota Wish.

On the front of the 2012 Wish, the strut mount sits at the top of the strut assembly, tying the strut and spring to the body while isolating vibration and noise. Inside the mount is a bearing that lets the whole strut rotate smoothly as the driver turns the steering wheel. When the mount’s rubber hardens or cracks, or when the bearing binds, the Wish can develop clunks over bumps, a creak or notchiness while steering, vague straight‑line stability, and even uneven tyre wear. Left too long, it can stress the new struts and shorten tyre life.

For servicing, a good rule in Australia and New Zealand is to inspect the front strut mounts every 40,000–60,000 km, or sooner if the Wish regularly travels on coarse chip or corrugated roads. Most owners replace the mounts whenever new front struts are fitted, as the labour overlaps and it prevents noise returning after fresh dampers go in. Always replace in pairs (left and right), and book a wheel alignment after any strut or mount work.

• Listen for: dull thuds over speed humps, creaks when turning at low speed, steering that doesn’t self‑centre cleanly.
• Look for: cracked or separated rubber, perished dust boots, and corrosion at the top plate.
• Fitment tips: use quality mounts with new bearings, renew top nuts and any single‑use fasteners, check bump stops and boots, and torque with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload.

Keeping the front strut mounts healthy helps the Wish steer quietly, track straight, and keep tyres wearing evenly — exactly what’s wanted for family duties and long Kiwi or Aussie road trips.

Popular questions

Does the 2012 Toyota Wish have rear strut mounts?
No. The rear of the 2012 Wish uses a torsion beam with separate shock absorbers and coil springs, so there are no rear strut mounts. Only the front has MacPherson struts with strut mounts and bearings.

How often should front strut mounts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Inspect every 40,000–60,000 km, and replace if there’s noise, steering roughness, visible rubber cracking, or whenever fitting new front struts. Many workshops recommend doing mounts with struts to avoid repeat labour and noises.

What are the symptoms of worn strut mounts on a Wish?
Common signs include clunks over bumps, creaking or gritty feel when turning the wheel, memory steer (not returning to centre smoothly), front‑end shimmy, and uneven front tyre wear. If these show up, plan an inspection before they affect handling and tyre life.