Parts for your 2014 Toyota Fortuner-Struts

2014 Toyota Fortuner: Are “struts” relevant on this model?

Short answer: no, struts aren’t used on the 2014 Toyota Fortuner. The front end runs a double-wishbone suspension with a coilover shock absorber and stabiliser bar, while the rear is a solid (live) axle with a four-link layout, Panhard rod, coil springs, and separate shock absorbers. That setup is confirmed in Toyota’s Fortuner Repair Manual (2011–2015) Front/Rear Suspension sections, Toyota New Car Features (Hilux/Fortuner AN60) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, which all specify “shock absorber” assemblies rather than MacPherson struts.

Why the difference matters: in a MacPherson strut design, the strut unit is a structural member that locates the steering knuckle. In the Fortuner, wheel location is handled by the upper and lower control arms, so the front coilover is a shock absorber with a spring around it, not a strut in the technical sense. Many workshops casually call any coilover a “strut”, but for parts and servicing on a 2014 Fortuner, you’re chasing shocks and coils, not struts.

• Strength and off-road travel: The double-wishbone front and live-axle rear give robust articulation and durability for towing and 4x4 work.
• Geometry control: Upper and lower arms manage camber/caster precisely, which suits heavier loads and rough tracks better than a typical strut tower layout.
• Serviceability: Shocks, coils, bushes and ball joints can be maintained or upgraded independently to suit touring or lift kits.

What to service instead of “struts”: regular checks should focus on the front coilover shock absorbers, upper and lower control arm bushes, ball joints, top mounts, sway bar links and bushes, plus rear shocks, control arm bushes, Panhard rod bushes, bump stops and dust boots. Look for oil seepage on shocks, uneven or cupped tyres, increased body roll, nose-dive under braking, and extra bounce after bumps. On rough Kiwi and Aussie roads or with outback touring, inspections every 20,000 km are sensible, and shock replacement is often due somewhere around 80,000–120,000 km depending on use. Always replace shocks in axle pairs and book a wheel alignment after front suspension work. For torque specs and procedures, follow the Toyota Repair Manual.

If a parts listing or a mate calls them “struts” on a 2014 Fortuner, it’s almost certainly referring to the front coilover shock assembly. For correct fitment and performance, order and service them as shock absorbers and springs, just as Toyota’s manuals and EPC specify.

Popular questions about 2014toyotafortuner struts

Q1: Does a 2014 Toyota Fortuner have front struts or shock absorbers?

It runs front shock absorbers with coil springs (a coilover) in a double‑wishbone setup, not MacPherson struts.

Because the control arms locate the hub, the damper isn’t a structural member, so it isn’t a strut in the technical sense.

At the rear, it uses a live axle with separate coil springs and shock absorbers, again not struts.

Toyota’s Repair Manual and New Car Features identify these as shock absorbers, not strut cartridges.

The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue also lists “Shock Absorber Assy” for the Fortuner of this era.

Workshops sometimes use “strut” as casual shorthand for any coilover unit, that’s the source of confusion.

When ordering parts, ask for front shock absorbers and front coil springs or a complete coilover assembly.

For lift kits, choose matched shocks and springs, and consider upper control arms to maintain geometry.

Signs your shocks are tired include cupped tyres, excess body bounce, and longer stopping distances.

Inspect for oil leaks on the shock body and for perished bushes or top mounts.

Replace in pairs on the same axle to keep handling balanced.

Always get a wheel alignment after front suspension work.

Q2: What maintenance should be done if the 2014 Fortuner doesn’t use struts?

Inspect front and rear shock absorbers for leaks, dents, or fading performance.

Check front upper and lower control arm bushes and ball joints for play or tearing.

Look over top mounts and dust boots on the front coilovers for cracking or collapse.

Examine sway bar links and bushes for looseness that can cause clunks and roll.

At the rear, check the Panhard rod and trailing arm bushes for wear.

Confirm bump stops are intact, especially if towing or touring on corrugations.

Rotate tyres regularly and watch for cupping that hints at weak damping.

Book a wheel alignment after any shock, spring, or control arm work.

On harsh roads, inspect every 20,000 km, replace shocks as needed around 80,000–120,000 km.

If fitting accessories or a lift, match spring rates and shock valving to the vehicle’s weight.

Replace components in axle pairs and torque to Toyota’s specs from the Repair Manual.

Road test for stability, braking feel, and rebound after bumps to confirm the job’s right.