Parts for your 2015 Ford Focus-Strut mounts

Maintaining and Replacing Strut Mounts on Your 2015 Ford Focus

Your 2015 Ford Focus comes equipped with strut mounts, which play a vital role in the vehicle's suspension system. These components are crucial for ensuring a smooth and controlled ride by connecting the struts to the vehicle body and aiding in noise reduction and vibration absorption. Here's some guidance on how to maintain and, if necessary, replace these parts as part of your Focus' maintenance routine.

Before diving into how to replace or maintain strut mounts, it's essential to understand what they do. Strut mounts serve as the pivot point for the suspension and steering system. They support the vehicle's weight, maintain proper alignment, and absorb shocks from road irregularities, contributing significantly to your driving comfort and handling precision.

Over time and through regular use, strut mounts can wear out or become damaged due to factors such as road conditions, driving habits, and environmental influences. If you notice increased noise, uneven tyre wear, or a decline in ride comfort, these may be signs that your strut mounts need attention.

1. Recognising Symptoms of Worn Strut Mounts
   • Noises: A clear sign of worn strut mounts is a clunking or knocking sound while driving on uneven surfaces or making turns.
   • Vibration: Steering wheel vibrations, especially noticeable at higher speeds, may indicate excessive wear in the mounts.
   • Alignment Issues: If your vehicle pulls to one side, it's worth checking the strut mounts as potential culprits.
   • Uneven Tyre Wear: Premature or inconsistent tyre wear patterns can be a result of failing strut mounts.

Once you suspect an issue with the strut mounts, it's a good idea to inspect them closely. This is a task that can be handled during regular vehicle servicing. A visual and physical inspection can reveal any cracks, deterioration, or movement in the mounts.

1. Steps for Strut Mount Replacement
   • Preparation: Make sure your vehicle is safely lifted and supported using jack stands before you begin. Gather all necessary tools, including a socket set, torque wrench, and any specific tools recommended in your vehicle's service manual.
   • Remove the Strut Assembly: Start by removing the wheel to access the strut. Unbolt the strut assembly from the steering knuckle and the strut tower. Be careful, as the components might be heavy or held under tension.
   • Replace the Strut Mount: Once the strut assembly is removed, compress the spring using a spring compressor. This step is crucial to safely remove the mount. Replace the old mount with a new one, ensuring proper alignment and fitting.
   • Reassemble and Test: Reassemble the strut and reinstall it in the vehicle. Ensure all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications and repeat the process for the other side if necessary. Conduct a test drive to ensure the repair has resolved noise, vibration, or handling issues.

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn components can significantly extend the lifespan of your vehicle's suspension system. Consider having the strut mounts checked during routine services. Checking other suspension components, such as bushings and bearings, at the same time can provide a comprehensive overview of your vehicle's suspension health.

If you are not confident performing these replacements yourself, consulting a professional mechanic is always a smart choice. Mechanics have the experience and tools to diagnose and rectify suspension issues efficiently, minimising the risk of further damage and ensuring your vehicle returns to optimal performance.