Parts for your 2012 Volkswagen Amarok-Strut mounts

Strut Mounts on the 2012 Volkswagen Amarok: What You Need to Know

The 2012 Volkswagen Amarok is known for its robust design and tough off-road capability, built to handle rough Australian conditions with ease. When it comes to the suspension setup, it's important to understand whether components like strut mounts play a role in this vehicle's performance and maintenance.

For the 2012 Volkswagen Amarok, strut mounts are actually not part of its suspension design. Rather than using a strut-based front suspension system which incorporates strut mounts, the Amarok uses a double wishbone setup up front paired with coil springs and shock absorbers. At the rear, it typically features a leaf spring suspension, designed to carry heavy loads and provide solid stability under tough driving conditions.

So, why are strut mounts not used on the Amarok? The main reason comes down to the type of front suspension. Strut mounts are designed to connect the top of a MacPherson strut assembly to the vehicle's body, isolating vibration and allowing the strut to pivot when steering. MacPherson struts combine a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit, which requires a specialised mount to manage movement and noise.

The Amarok's double wishbone front suspension, on the other hand, uses separate shock absorbers and springs, so there's no need for a strut mount. The shock absorbers are mounted directly to the lower control arms and the chassis, while the coil springs sit independently. This setup offers excellent control and durability, especially for a ute designed to carry loads and handle off-road travel. As a result, there's simply no space or functional need for strut mounts.

If you are servicing a 2012 Volkswagen Amarok, you won't find strut mounts on the parts list because the vehicle's suspension system doesn't call for them. Instead, maintenance will focus on other key suspension components such as shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, bushings, and ball joints. Keeping these components in good condition is crucial for ride comfort, handling, and safety.

For anyone used to dealing with cars that employ MacPherson struts, it might seem unusual that strut mounts are not involved, but this is a great example of how different suspension designs suit different vehicle purposes. The Amarok's setup prioritises strength and load capacity over the compact simplicity of MacPherson struts, meaning you get a tough, familiar suspension system with independent front wheels and a sturdy rear that's perfect for work and play.

When it comes to servicing the Amarok's suspension, it's a good idea to:

• Regularly check shock absorbers for leaks or signs of wear.
• Inspect bushings and control arm joints for any cracks or excessive movement.
• Monitor coil springs for any signs of sagging or damage.
• Ensure leaf springs and mounting points at the back are secure and free from corrosion.

By focusing on these components, you can keep your 2012 Volkswagen Amarok riding smoothly and safely without worrying about strut mounts. This straightforward suspension layout also means repair and maintenance can be more cost-effective, with no need to replace specialised strut mounts or deal with complicated strut removals.