Parts for your 2013 Mazda 3-Strut mounts

2013 Mazda 3 strut-mounts

Strut-mounts are absolutely used on the 2013 Mazda 3 (BL series). Technical references that confirm this include the Mazda 3 BL Workshop Manual (Front Shock Absorber and Coil Spring Removal/Installation), which shows the upper shock absorber insulator and bearing assembly (the strut mount), the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue, which lists a front shock absorber mount/insulator for the 2010–2013 Mazda 3, and major fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe that supply dedicated front strut-mount kits for this model. So the part is relevant and fitted on the front suspension of the vehicle.

On this Mazda, the front suspension is MacPherson strut, and the strut-mount sits at the top of the strut, tying it to the body. It has two key jobs: isolate noise and vibration with a rubber insulator, and let the strut rotate smoothly when steering thanks to an integrated bearing. That combo keeps steering light and precise, reduces harshness over bumps, and helps the front end track straight. The rear uses separate shocks and springs, so “strut-mounts” specifically apply to the front.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the strut-mounts inspected any time the front end is up for tyres, brakes, or if there are steering noises. Techs will look for cracked or perished rubber, collapsed mounts, rusty top plates, or a notchy bearing. Typical symptoms include clunks over bumps, a creak when turning the wheel at low speed, vague steering, or feathered/uneven front tyre wear. If in doubt, a road test over speed humps and a slow lock-to-lock turn with the bonnet open can reveal binding or noise from the tops of the struts.

Best practice is to replace strut-mounts in pairs and, if the struts are coming out anyway, fit new mounts, bearings, bump stops and dust boots at the same time. That prevents chasing noises later and saves on labour. Use quality components and follow workshop-manual torque specs, after reassembly, a wheel alignment is recommended to keep the Mazda’s sharp turn-in and even tyre wear. There’s no routine lubrication or separate servicing for the bearing—once worn, the mount/bearing assembly is replaced. Given typical Aussie and Kiwi road conditions, many owners see 100,000–150,000 kilometres before mount wear shows up, but earlier failure can occur on rougher commutes.

• Watch for: clunks, creaks, steering “memory” or notchiness, and uneven front tyre wear.
• Service tip: replace mounts with struts, in pairs, and finish with an alignment.

How long do strut-mounts last on a 2013 Mazda 3?

For most daily drivers, 100,000–150,000 kilometres is common before symptoms appear. Cars doing lots of rough roads or speed humps may see wear earlier. If there’s noise, play, or notchy steering, get them checked rather than waiting for a set distance.

Should strut-mounts be replaced when fitting new struts?

Yes, it’s strongly recommended. The mount and bearing age with the strut, and reusing a tired mount can leave a fresh strut with old noises. Replacing the mount, bearing, bump stop and boot with the strut is a tidy, cost-effective job.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing strut-mounts?

Yes. Any time a front strut is removed, alignment can shift. A post-job alignment keeps steering straight and protects the tyres from premature wear.