Parts for your 2013 Ford Kuga-Strut mounts

2013 Ford Kuga strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant to the 2013 Ford Kuga. Technical documentation including the Ford Workshop Manual (2013 Kuga/Escape, Section 204-01 Front Suspension), common aftermarket parts catalogues from Monroe and KYB listing front strut mount kits for 2013 Kuga, and Autodata suspension references all confirm the Kuga runs a MacPherson strut front suspension that uses an upper strut mount with an integrated bearing. The rear uses a multi-link layout with separate shocks and springs, so “rear strut mounts” aren’t applicable.

On the 2013 Kuga, the front strut mounts sit at the top of each front strut assembly. They secure the strut to the body under the bonnet, isolate vibration and road noise, and house a bearing that allows the strut to rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When healthy, they keep the steering light and precise, and help protect the body from harsh impacts.

Owners and workshops should keep an eye on these mounts as part of routine servicing. There’s no fixed replacement interval, but they’re wear items. Australian and New Zealand conditions—rougher roads, speed humps, and plenty of stop–start—can accelerate wear, typically showing up anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 kilometres.

• Common symptoms: clunks or knocks over bumps, creaks when turning, vague or “sticky” steering (memory steer), and uneven or feathered front tyre wear.
• Inspection tips: check for perished rubber, separated bonding, visible cracks, or rusted/loose top nuts under the bonnet. Spin the mount while the strut is unloaded and feel for roughness in the bearing.
• Replacement advice: do both fronts together, and always replace the bearing with the mount. Use quality components and new self-locking nuts. A spring compressor is essential—if unsure, leave it to a pro.
• After-service must-do: book a wheel alignment. Any time the strut is disturbed, alignment can drift, affecting handling and tyre life.

Because the Kuga’s rear isn’t a strut, rear top mounts are different parts to simple shock mounts, and don’t include a steering bearing. Focus servicing effort on the front mounts and bearings, they have the biggest impact on steering feel, noise levels, and overall ride comfort.

Referencing the Ford Workshop Manual and reputable parts catalogues will confirm exact part numbers for your VIN and any build-date splits around 2013. That way the right mount and bearing go in first time, and the Kuga stays tight, quiet, and predictable on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

Does the 2013 Ford Kuga have rear strut mounts?
No. The rear of the 2013 Kuga uses a multi-link setup with separate shocks and springs, so there aren’t rear “strut” mounts with bearings. The rear has shock upper mounts, which are simpler rubber bush-style fittings without a steering bearing.

What are the signs the front strut mounts need replacing on a 2013 Kuga?
Listen and feel for knocking over bumps, creaking while turning the wheel, notchy or slow-to-return steering, and uneven front tyre wear. Under the bonnet, cracked or perished rubber around the mount or loose top nuts are also red flags.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts on a 2013 Kuga?
Yes. Any time the strut assembly is removed, camber and toe can shift. A post-repair alignment helps the Kuga track straight, protects tyres, and restores steering feel.