Parts for your 2014 Holden Commodore-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2014 Holden Commodore

The 2014 Holden Commodore is a well-engineered vehicle that blends performance and comfort, and part of what keeps its ride smooth and controlled are components like the strut mounts, which play an important role in the suspension system. When it comes to the 2014 Holden Commodore, strut mounts are indeed a relevant and fitted component, especially on the front suspension setup. So, what exactly do strut mounts do and why should owners care about them during servicing?

First off, a strut mount is the piece that connects the vehicle's strut assembly to the body or chassis of the car. It is basically the interface between the suspension and the frame. On a car like the Commodore, which often uses MacPherson struts up front, the strut mount is critical because it supports the weight of the vehicle, absorbs shocks and vibrations from the road, and allows for smooth steering movements.

The front suspension on the 2014 Holden Commodore uses a strut-based system. This means that each front wheel assembly is connected to the body via a strut, which itself combines a shock absorber and coil spring. The strut mount sits at the top of these struts, fixing them firmly yet flexibly to the vehicle's chassis while also providing a rotational bearing for steering. Without a proper strut mount, the vehicle wouldn't be able to steer smoothly or absorb road imperfections effectively.

When driving the Commodore, the strut mount helps in isolating road noise and harsh vibrations before they transfer into the cabin, improving overall ride comfort. Additionally, it facilitates the strut's ability to pivot as the wheels turn, which is crucial for proper steering response. If the strut mounts wear out or deteriorate, drivers might notice clunking noises, poor steering feel, uneven tyre wear, or a harsher ride quality.

Maintaining strut mounts on the 2014 Holden Commodore is important because they endure a lot of stress over time. The load and movements of driving, especially over rough Australian roads, can cause the rubber parts inside the mount to dry out and crack, or the internal bearings to seize. This typically results in decreased suspension performance and can lead to more widespread suspension wear if left unattended.

When servicing the Commodore, especially as it approaches higher mileage, it's a smart move to have the strut mounts inspected along with the struts and shocks. Signs that strut mounts need replacement include:

• Unusual knocking or clunking noises when driving over bumps or during steering
• Excessive vibration felt inside the cabin
• Increased tyre wear patterns, particularly on the front tyres
• Stiff or less responsive steering feel

Replacing worn or damaged strut mounts is usually done at the same time as replacing the struts themselves. This is because accessing the mount requires disassembling the strut assembly. Most mechanics recommend replacing strut mounts in pairs (both sides at once) to maintain balanced handling and performance. Using quality OEM or trusted aftermarket parts is crucial, as a poor-quality mount can fail quickly or cause premature wear of other suspension components.

Typical strut mount replacement involves removing the front wheels, taking the strut out of the suspension, removing the old strut mount, and fitting the new one before reassembling everything and performing a wheel alignment. A professional mechanic will ensure the mount is correctly installed and the steering geometry is restored, which helps maintain safe handling and tyre life.

Routine checks of the front suspension, especially before long trips or after hitting potholes or rough terrain, can save the Commodore owner costly repairs down the track. While strut mounts aren't components that typically fail overnight, their gradual wear can contribute to uncomfortable driving and subtle handling issues over time.

In a nutshell, the strut mounts on the 2014 Holden Commodore are important little parts that quietly work behind the scenes to keep the suspension working correctly and the ride pleasant. Treating them with care and including them in your regular servicing routine will help maintain the iconic Commodore driving experience just as GM designed it.