Parts for your 2014 Lexus Is-Struts

2014 Lexus IS struts: are they used, and what should owners know?

Short answer: suspension struts aren’t used on the 2014 Lexus IS. Technical sources including the Lexus Global press kit for the all‑new IS (2013 model launch), the Toyota/Lexus Repair Manual (TIS) for the GSE30/AVE30 platform, and contemporary road tests highlight a front double‑wishbone setup and a rear multi‑link arrangement—no MacPherson struts in sight. That means the car runs separate shock absorbers and coil springs within control‑arm geometry, rather than structural “struts.”

Why did Lexus skip struts? The engineering brief for the XE30 (2014 IS) focused on cornering grip, consistent tyre contact, and sharp steering. A double‑wishbone front end gives better camber control through the suspension’s travel than a MacPherson strut, so the tyre stays planted when turning hard. It also helps keep the bonnet line low and the engine set back for balance, while the rear multi‑link (adapted from the GS) manages traction and ride quality. Lexus’ own documentation calls out higher roll rigidity and revised geometry to lift handling without ruining comfort—exactly the kind of traits double‑wishbone/multi‑link delivers.

So, while owners might search for “struts” for a 2014 IS, what they’re really after are shocks (dampers), top mounts, and the various arms, joints, and bushes that make up the wishbone and multi‑link hardware. If the car has Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) on F Sport grades, the dampers are electronically controlled and need AVS‑compatible replacements plus a calibration step with a scan tool after fitting.

• What to service instead of “struts”:
  • Front and rear shock absorbers (monotube/twin‑tube as specified), plus strut/top mounts for the shock assemblies
  • Control‑arm bushes and ball joints (front), multi‑link arm bushes and joints (rear)
  • Sway‑bar links and bushes, and a four‑wheel alignment after any suspension work
• When to act:
  • Typical shock life is often 80–120,000 km depending on roads and load, earlier if you notice float, nose‑dive, or cupped tyre wear
  • Listen for knocks or creaks over bumps—often tired mounts or bushes
• Good workshop practice:
  • Torque suspension bolts at ride height to protect bushes
  • If AVS‑equipped, perform height sensor checks and AVS initialisation

Referencing: Lexus Global “All‑New Lexus IS” technical release (2013 model launch), Toyota/Lexus TIS Repair Manual for 2014 IS (GSE30/AVE30), major road tests of the 2014 IS platform describing double‑wishbone front and multi‑link rear suspension.

Does a 2014 Lexus IS have struts or shocks?

It doesn’t use MacPherson struts. The 2014 IS runs double‑wishbone front and multi‑link rear suspension with separate shock absorbers and springs. Some variants use AVS electronic dampers, but they’re still not structural “struts.”

What should be replaced if the “struts” feel worn on a 2014 IS?

Look at the front and rear shocks, top mounts, sway‑bar links, and the control‑arm/multi‑link bushes and joints. After any work, a proper alignment is essential to protect tyres and keep the steering feel crisp.

Can coilovers be fitted, and do they replace the struts on a 2014 IS?

Quality coilovers can replace the factory spring and shock assemblies, but they don’t convert the car to MacPherson struts. Choose AVS‑compatible kits if fitted, set ride height sensibly for Aussie and Kiwi roads, and get a wheel alignment straight after installation.