Parts for your 2014 Toyota Rav4-Strut mounts

2014 Toyota RAV4 strut mounts — what they do and when to replace

Based on technical sources — Toyota’s service information for the 2013–2018 RAV4 (XA40), the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, plus fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe — the 2014 Toyota RAV4 runs a MacPherson strut front suspension that uses strut mounts (often called the front suspension support and bearing). The rear suspension is a separate coil spring and shock setup (double wishbone/multi‑link), so there are no rear “strut mounts” on this model.

On the front of the 2014 RAV4, the strut mount does three jobs: it ties the strut to the body, isolates vibration and road noise with a rubber insulator, and lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer via an integrated bearing. When the mount or its bearing wears, steering feel and tyre wear suffer, and annoying knocks or creaks show up over bumps and when turning.

For servicing, it’s smart to think of strut mounts as a matched pair with the front struts. Many workshops in Australia and New Zealand recommend replacing mounts whenever front struts are renewed, typically between 80,000 and 120,000 kilometres depending on road conditions, towing, and load. Fresh mounts help preserve alignment, keep NVH in check, and restore crisp steering return-to-centre.

• Common symptoms of tired mounts:
  • Clunking over speed humps or potholes
  • Groaning or notchy feel while turning the wheel at low speed
  • Wandering, vague steering, or uneven front tyre wear
  • Visible cracking or separation of the rubber insulator

When replacing, choose quality OE or reputable aftermarket mounts that include the bearing. Replace left and right together, use new self-locking hardware, and follow torque specs with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bush. Because the mount sits at the top of the strut, the spring must be safely compressed — a proper compressor and sound workshop practice are essential.

After any front strut or mount work, a four‑wheel alignment is strongly recommended. It helps keep the RAV4 tracking straight, protects tyres, and ensures lane‑keep and stability systems behave as intended. For New Zealand WOF or Australian rego inspections, addressing noisy or perished strut mounts early can prevent a defect and keep the cabin quiet on coarse‑chip roads and corrugations.

• Pro tips for the 2014 RAV4:
  • Mark camber bolts before removal and still plan for alignment
  • Confirm the top mount’s orientation, the bearing plate is directional
  • Check strut boots and bump stops while the assembly is out

Referenced technical sources: Toyota RAV4 (XA40) Repair Manual via Toyota TIS, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (front suspension support sub‑assembly and bearing), KYB and Monroe application catalogues for 2013–2018 RAV4 front strut mounts.

Popular questions about 2014 Toyota RAV4 strut mounts

How long do front strut mounts last on a 2014 RAV4?

In typical Australian and New Zealand use, many last 100,000–160,000 km. Rough roads, frequent kerb hits, heavy loads, or big temperature swings can shorten that. They’re often renewed whenever front struts are replaced to keep steering feel and NVH tidy.

Regular inspections at service intervals help, any clunks, steering notchiness, or rubber cracking are cues to act.

Does the rear of a 2014 RAV4 have strut mounts?

No. The rear runs a separate shock and spring (double wishbone/multi‑link). There’s no rear strut mount, just upper and lower shock bushings. Noises at the rear usually point to worn shock bushes, sway bar links, or control arm bushes.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing strut mounts?

Yes, a proper alignment is strongly recommended. Disturbing the strut assembly can shift camber and toe. An alignment protects tyres, restores straight‑line stability, and keeps driver‑assist systems happy.