Parts for your 2014 Mazda Cx-5-Strut mounts

2014 Mazda CX-5 strut mounts — fitment, purpose and service advice

Yes, the 2014 Mazda CX-5 uses strut mounts at the front. Technical references that confirm this include the Mazda CX-5 (KE) Workshop Manual front suspension section (MacPherson strut design with an upper insulator and bearing), the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue for the KE series (listing the front shock absorber upper insulator/mount and bearing), and aftermarket fitment catalogues such as KYB (e.g., SM5851 front strut mount) and Monroe Strut-Mate listings for the 2013–2016 CX-5. The rear of the CX-5 is a multi-link setup with separate springs and shock absorbers, so there are no rear “strut mounts” in the strict sense—only shock mounts.

On the 2014 CX-5, the front strut mounts do two key jobs. First, they secure the top of the MacPherson strut to the body and isolate road vibration and noise via a rubber insulator. Second, they provide a bearing to let the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When they’re in good nick, steering feels light and consistent, the cabin is quieter, and the tyres track cleanly. When they’re tired, owners often notice clunks over bumps, groans or twangs when turning the wheel, a sticky or “memory steer” feel on return-to-centre, and in some cases feathered tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing on a 2014 CX-5, it’s smart to inspect the front strut mounts any time the front suspension is apart, or at roughly 80,000–120,000 kilometres depending on road conditions. Look for cracked or separated rubber, crushed or domed insulators, and roughness or notchiness when rotating the bearing by hand with the strut removed. If replacing front struts or springs, fitting new mounts and bearings at the same time saves double labour and helps restore like-new steering feel.

Replacement tips for this model:

• Always replace mounts in pairs and include the bearing/insulator stack as specified by Mazda.
• Use new self-locking nuts where specified and torque to the workshop manual values.
• Mark strut-to-knuckle orientation, then get a proper wheel alignment after reassembly.
• Check related parts: sway bar links, top nuts, dust boots and bump stops.

Owners in Australia and New Zealand often drive on mixed road surfaces, so catching early mount wear helps prevent extra noise, vibration, and premature tyre wear. With quality parts and correct torqueing, new mounts typically last well past 100,000 km in everyday use.

Popular questions about 2014 Mazda CX-5 strut mounts

Does the 2014 CX-5 have strut mounts front and rear?
The front does—because it uses a MacPherson strut that needs an upper mount and bearing. The rear is a multi-link arrangement with separate shock and spring, so it uses shock mounts rather than strut mounts.

How long do the front strut mounts usually last?
With normal driving, many last 100,000–150,000 kilometres. Rough roads, heavy loads or tired struts can shorten that. Replace them when fitting new front struts or if there’s noise, binding, or visible rubber damage.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Any time the front struts are disturbed, a wheel alignment is recommended to keep steering straight and protect tyre life.