Parts for your 2013 Holden Colorado-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2013 Holden Colorado

The 2013 Holden Colorado is a popular ute among Aussie drivers, known for its ruggedness and versatility, especially in off-road and worksite conditions. When it comes to its suspension system, one common question that arises is whether the Holden Colorado uses strut mounts, and if so, what role they play in the vehicle's ride and handling.

Firstly, it is important to note that the 2013 Holden Colorado does not use strut mounts in the traditional sense, because it does not employ a MacPherson strut suspension setup. Strut mounts are part and parcel of a MacPherson strut front suspension system, where the strut acts as both a shock absorber and a structural steering pivot, mounted directly to the vehicle's body via the strut mount. However, the 2013 Holden Colorado utilises a double wishbone front suspension system combined with coil springs and shock absorbers instead of MacPherson struts.

This design choice means that the Holden Colorado does not have strut mounts as you would find on many passenger cars that use strut-type front suspensions. Instead, it uses separate components: control arm bushings, upper and lower ball joints, and shock absorber mounts which fulfill the roles typically associated with strut mounts. These components work together to keep the suspension geometry correct, absorb road impacts, and provide steering stability.

So, why does the 2013 Holden Colorado use a double wishbone setup rather than struts? Well, double wishbone suspensions are often preferred on Utes and 4x4s because they provide better wheel control, greater suspension travel, and superior durability - all important considerations for off-road driving and heavy-load conditions. The separate shock absorbers and coil springs allow more flexibility in tuning the suspension specific to the demands of a workhorse vehicle like the Colorado.

Given that strut mounts are not fitted to the Holden Colorado, there's no need to service or replace them on this particular vehicle. Instead, owners should focus attention on the maintenance of the components relevant to the double wishbone suspension, such as the control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorber mounts. These parts perform critical roles in ensuring the vehicle maintains proper ride comfort, handling, and safety.

For those unfamiliar, here is a quick rundown of what a typical strut mount does on vehicles that use MacPherson strut suspension. The strut mount acts as a connection point between the strut assembly and the vehicle chassis. It usually contains a bearing that allows the strut to pivot when you turn the steering wheel. This not only supports the weight of the car but also isolates road noise and vibrations from the cabin, contributing to a smoother and quieter ride. Strut mounts can wear out over time, leading to clunking noises, vibrations, or alignment issues when worn or damaged.

Since the Colorado relies on other suspension parts, regular inspections during servicing should focus on checking for wear or damage to these components instead. Here are a few tips to keep your 2013 Holden Colorado's suspension in good nick:

• Regularly inspect control arm bushings for cracks, excessive wear, or deterioration. These are rubber or polyurethane components that absorb shocks and maintain alignment.
• Check the upper and lower ball joints for free play or binding. Worn ball joints can cause noises, uneven tyre wear, and poor steering response.
• Examine the shock absorbers for leaks, dents, or other damage. Shock absorbers dampen suspension movement and maintain tyre contact with the road.
• Inspect the shock absorber mounting points and bushings. Even though not strut mounts, these mountings serve a similar role in holding suspension parts firmly in place and isolating vibration.

When it comes to replacement, quality parts and professional installation are key. Using OEM or reputable aftermarket components ensures reliability and longevity. If any of these suspension parts are found to be worn or damaged, replacing them in pairs (both sides) is generally recommended to maintain balanced handling. A proper wheel alignment after replacing suspension parts is also essential to preserve your tyre life and driving comfort.

If any suspension noises, excessive vibration, or handling issues arise while driving your Holden Colorado, these symptoms should prompt a suspension check by a qualified mechanic. While working away on rough roads or carrying heavy loads, the Colorado's suspension parts naturally take a fair bit of wear, so staying on top of maintenance will keep the vehicle driving safely and comfortably for years to come.