Parts for your 2013 Toyota Hilux-Strut mounts

Are strutmounts used on a 2013 Toyota HiLux?

Short answer: no, the 2013 Toyota HiLux doesn’t use traditional strutmounts. Technical sources including Toyota’s New Car Features manual for the N70 HiLux range (covering 2005–2015 models), Toyota’s front suspension Repair Manual section used by Aussie and NZ workshops, and major damper catalogues used locally, all describe the HiLux front end as a double-wishbone (upper and lower control arm) suspension with a coil-over shock absorber. That setup isn’t a MacPherson strut, so the vehicle doesn’t need the classic strut mount with a built-in steering bearing. This is why “2013toyotahilux strutmounts” parts listings can be confusing across suppliers.

Instead of a strutmount, the HiLux runs an upper shock support/insulator (often nicknamed a “strut top” in the 4x4 scene). Steering load is carried by the upper and lower ball joints on the knuckle, not by the top mount, so there’s no rotating bearing up top like a passenger car strut. The top support is mainly a rubber-isolated mount that secures the coil-over to the body and helps control noise, vibration and harshness. That’s why searches for 2013toyotahilux strutmounts usually lead owners to the correct piece: a shock top mount/insulator rather than a bearing-type strut mount.

• Design reason: double-wishbone geometry with separate steering pivots means no need for a bearing-style strutmount.
• What’s fitted: an upper shock support/insulator (“top hat”) with three studs, it doesn’t turn with the steering.
• Service tip: when replacing front shocks or fitting a lift, it’s smart to renew the top insulators, bushes, dust boots and bump stops, then get a wheel alignment.

For owners chasing parts under “2013toyotahilux strutmounts”, the practical move is to specify front shock absorber upper mounts/insulators for the exact VIN and build month. If there are clunks over corrugations, visible cracking around the top rubber, or a top-out knock after bumps, the upper support is worth inspecting. Replace in pairs, torque the three top-stud nuts to the manufacturer spec, and don’t undo the centre nut while the assembly is under load. A post-job alignment will keep tyre wear and on-road feel tidy.

Popular questions about 2013toyotahilux strutmounts

Does a 2013 Toyota HiLux actually have strut mounts?

No. The 2013 HiLux uses double-wishbone front suspension with a coil-over shock, so it doesn’t run a MacPherson-style strut mount with a bearing. Steering happens through the upper and lower ball joints, not the top mount.

What many call “strutmounts” on this model are really the upper shock supports/insulators. They secure the assembly and isolate vibration but don’t rotate with the steering.

What should be replaced when doing front shocks on a 2013 HiLux?

Along with the shocks, it’s smart to replace the upper shock supports/insulators, dust boots and bump stops. If the coil springs are tired or you’re changing ride height, swap springs too.

Reassemble with new hardware where required, torque to spec, then book a wheel alignment. That’ll protect tyres and keep the ute tracking straight.

What noises point to a worn top mount/insulator on a 2013 HiLux?

Common signs include a dull clunk on sharp bumps, a top-out knock at full extension, or a creak as the suspension loads up. You may also see cracked or perished rubber around the mount.

If those symptoms show up, inspect both sides and replace in pairs. Fresh mounts with good shocks sharpen steering feel and reduce cabin harshness.