Parts for your 2015 Lexus Is-Struts

2015 Lexus IS struts — what’s actually fitted and why

Short answer: traditional MacPherson suspension struts aren’t used on the 2015 Lexus IS (XE30 series, including IS 250, IS 350 and IS 300h). Technical sources confirm the platform runs a double wishbone front suspension and a multi‑link rear, each using separate shock absorbers and coil springs rather than a combined strut/knuckle assembly. References include the Lexus IS (GSE3#/AVE30) Repair Manual sections for Front Suspension — Double Wishbone and Rear Suspension — Multi‑Link, the Toyota/Lexus Electronic Parts Catalogue (which lists front/rear shock absorbers, not struts), and major damper catalogues from KYB and Monroe that specify shocks (and AVS electronic variants on some F Sport/optioned models) instead of struts.

Why no struts? On the IS, Lexus prioritised steering feel and camber control under load. A double wishbone front end allows more precise geometry through the suspension travel than a MacPherson strut, helping the IS turn‑in crisply and keep the tyre contact patch planted on bumpy or cambered Aussie and Kiwi roads. At the rear, a multi‑link layout provides stable traction and a supple ride without packaging the damper as a structural member like a strut.

What does this mean for servicing? Owners and workshops should be looking at shock absorbers (dampers), coil springs, upper mounts/top hats, control arm bushes and ball joints rather than “front struts”. On AVS‑equipped cars, the electronic dampers have integrated actuators and require care with wiring and seals. Typical replacement triggers include fluid misting or leaks on the shock body, pogo‑stick ride, excess nose‑dive, or uneven tyre wear. Many techs will recommend replacing shocks in axle pairs to keep the car balanced, and checking alignment afterwards.

• Front: double wishbone with separate shock and spring, replace shocks, mounts and inspect wishbone bushes/ball joints.
• Rear: multi‑link with separate shock and spring, inspect link bushes and replace shocks in pairs.
• AVS models: use the correct electronic damper part numbers, don’t pinch or twist the harness.

One last note: the IS does have bonnet and boot gas struts (lift supports). These are unrelated to suspension and can be swapped easily when the hatch/bonnet stops holding itself up, but they’re not “suspension struts”.

Does a 2015 Lexus IS have struts or shocks?

It has shocks. The suspension is double wishbone up front and multi‑link at the rear, so there are no MacPherson struts. If a parts finder lists “front struts” for this model, they’re either mislabelled shocks or for a different Toyota/Lexus platform.

What should be replaced when freshening the suspension?

Commonly: front and rear shock absorbers (in pairs), upper mounts/top hats, and any tired control arm or link bushes. On cars with AVS, match the correct electronic shocks left/right. An alignment after suspension work is a smart move.

Are bonnet/boot struts the same as suspension struts?

No. Bonnet/boot struts are gas lift supports that hold the panel up. The IS’s suspension uses shocks, not struts, so don’t mix the terms when ordering parts.