Parts for your 2014 Toyota Rav4-Strut mounts

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

Based on technical sources, strut-mounts are relevant and used on the 2014 Toyota RAV4. The Toyota New Car Features (NCF) manual for the XA40 RAV4 details a MacPherson strut front suspension, which by design uses a top strut mount with an integrated bearing. Toyota’s Repair Manual identifies this part as the “front suspension support sub-assembly” and outlines service procedures for it alongside the front strut. Toyota parts catalogues and major suspension suppliers also list front strut-mounts and bearings for 2013–2018 RAV4 models. The rear of this RAV4 uses a multi-link/double-wishbone layout with separate shock absorbers, so there’s no rear strut-mount.

On a 2014-toyota-rav4, the front strut-mounts sit at the top of each MacPherson strut, bolting the strut to the body’s strut tower. They insulate road noise and vibration, and the built-in bearing lets the strut turn smoothly with the steering. When the rubber insulator perishes or the bearing binds, the RAV4 can develop clunks over bumps, groans or pops while turning, “memory steer” that doesn’t self-centre cleanly, and even uneven tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing of 2014-toyota-rav4 strut-mounts, technicians typically inspect them whenever the front suspension or tyres are checked, and always when front struts are replaced. There’s no real maintenance beyond inspection—look for cracked rubber, separated bonding, rust around the top hat, and any notchiness when the spring is turned by hand with the strut out. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—think corrugated roads, towing, or plenty of city kerb strikes—mount wear can show up earlier than expected.

Best practice is to replace strut-mounts and bearings in pairs whenever fitting new front struts. That avoids reusing a tired bearing that can cause fresh noises after the job. Quality OEM-equivalent mounts are recommended. During installation:

• Use a proper spring compressor and avoid spinning the strut shaft with a rattle gun.
• Torque the top nut and mount fasteners to Toyota specs from the Repair Manual.
• Check the upper spring seat, dust boots, and bump stops while it’s apart.
• Finish with a four-wheel alignment, as strut removal can alter camber and toe.

For owners, budgeting for front strut-mounts at the 80,000–120,000 km window—or sooner if symptoms appear—keeps the RAV4 steering feel crisp and the ride quiet, and it saves doubling up on labour later.

Popular questions about 2014-toyota-rav4 strut-mounts

Does the 2014 RAV4 have rear strut-mounts?
No. The rear uses a multi-link/double-wishbone setup with separate shocks and coil springs. The shocks have upper and lower mounts with bushes, but they aren’t “strut-mounts” in the MacPherson sense. Only the front uses true strut-mounts with bearings.

Should strut-mounts be replaced with the front struts?
Strongly recommended. The mount’s rubber and bearing age at a similar rate to the strut. Replacing them together prevents carry-over noises, avoids extra labour later, and restores smooth steering rotation and isolation.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing strut-mounts?
Yes. Front strut removal can disturb camber and toe on the RAV4, and some models use cam bolts at the knuckle. A post-repair alignment ensures proper tyre wear and on-centre steering feel.