Parts for your 2013 Ford Escape-Strut mounts

Maintaining and Replacing Strut Mounts on Your 2013 Ford Escape

The 2013 Ford Escape does indeed come equipped with strut mounts as part of its suspension system. This component plays a critical role in your driving comfort and vehicle control, as it connects the struts to the vehicle and helps absorb some of the impacts from the road. Over time, these mounts can wear down or become damaged, which can affect your vehicle's handling and performance. Regular maintenance and timely replacement are key to ensuring your Escape remains in top condition.

Recognising when your strut mounts need attention is crucial. Here are a few signs that your strut mounts may require replacement:

1. Noisy Suspension: If you're hearing clunking, rattling, or squeaking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, it might be an indicator that the strut mounts are worn out.
2. Vibration and Misalignment: Excessive vibrations or a misaligned steering wheel can also suggest that the strut mounts need checking.
3. Uneven Tyre Wear: Another symptom of worn strut mounts is uneven tyre wear, which can lead to further handling issues if not addressed.
4. Poor Handling: A noticeable decrease in vehicle handling or a spongy steering feel can be due to worn strut mounts.

If you observe any of these symptoms, it's worth examining the strut mounts as part of your routine vehicle upkeep. Replacing strut mounts on the Ford Escape is a task that can often be handled by skilled home mechanics with the right tools and know-how, but many prefer the job to be done by professionals due to the complexity of suspension work.

Here are some steps you would typically follow to replace a strut mount on your 2013 Ford Escape:

1. Safety First: Park the vehicle on a level surface and ensure the engine is turned off. Use wheel chocks for extra safety and avoid relying solely on a jack. Once chocked, lift the vehicle with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts and remove the wheel to gain clear access to the strut and its components.
3. Access the Strut: You may need to release other components that are obstructing access, such as brake calipers or sway bar links, to access the strut fully.
4. Remove the Strut Assembly: Unfasten the strut bolts and take out the entire strut assembly. Be cautious as the strut is under tension, removing it needs patience and precision.
5. Replace the Mount: With the strut assembly out, now you can access and replace the worn strut mount with a new one. It is typically located at the top of the strut assembly.
6. Reassemble: Once the new mount is in place, reassemble the strut and other components in the reverse order of disassembly. Ensure all bolts and nuts are properly torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
7. Check Alignment: Since strut replacement can impact wheel alignment, a post-replacement alignment is recommended to ensure smooth handling and even tyre wear.

Routine checks and maintenance of the strut mounts can undoubtedly extend the lifespan of your vehicle's suspension system. It's always a good idea to inspect all related suspension parts - including the struts and shock absorbers - when dealing with strut mounts, as these components don't operate independently.

It's worth considering some preventative measures, too. Clean the mounts regularly to prevent dirt build-up, which can lead to premature wear. Regular alignment checks will also help prevent signs of wear, as a misaligned suspension can exacerbate mount degradation.

Regardless of whether you handle car repairs yourself or prefer to visit a mechanic, understanding the condition of your strut mounts and replacing them as needed ensures your 2013 Ford Escape offers the smooth, reliable ride it was designed to deliver.