Parts for your 2015 Toyota Rav4-Strut mounts

2015 Toyota RAV4 strut mounts — what they do and when to replace

Technical references including the Toyota Repair Manual (Front Suspension section), Toyota New Car Features for the ALA4#/ASA4# RAV4 series (2013–2015), and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue confirm that a 2015 Toyota RAV4 uses MacPherson struts at the front with a strut top mount and integrated bearing (often called the suspension support sub-assembly). The rear is a separate shock and coil setup (double wishbone), so there are no rear strut mounts on this model.

On the front end of a 2015 RAV4, the strut mounts sit at the top of each MacPherson strut under the bonnet. They bolt the strut to the body shell and use rubber isolation to keep noise, vibration, and harshness in check. A built-in bearing lets the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. That combo helps the RAV4 steer faithfully while keeping the cabin quiet over corrugations and city potholes.

When the rubber in the mount hardens, splits, or the bearing wears, owners may notice steering that feels notchy or “memory steer”, clunks over speed bumps, or extra road noise. Because these parts cop the weight of the vehicle and constant steering loads, they’re wear items—especially on higher‑kilometre cars or those seeing rough roads.

Best practice during servicing is to inspect the front strut mounts any time the struts, springs, or front brakes are off, or every 40,000–60,000 km during a suspension check. If there’s play, cracking, metal-on-metal marks, or the bearing binds when the spring is turned, plan a replacement. It’s smart to replace mounts in pairs, and to fit new self-locking nuts as specified by Toyota. A wheel alignment should follow any strut or mount work to keep tyre wear tidy.

If the struts are due as well, consider a complete refresh—new struts, mounts, and dust boots in one hit—to save on labour and get the steering feel back to new. DIYers should use a quality spring compressor and follow torque specs, many owners will prefer a trusted workshop for safety and peace of mind.

• Common symptoms of worn front strut mounts:
  • Clunking or knocking over bumps
  • Steering that won’t self‑centre smoothly
  • Creaks when turning at low speed
  • Uneven front tyre wear after alignment

Do 2015 RAV4s have rear strut mounts?

No. The rear uses a separate shock absorber and coil spring on a double wishbone layout, so there are shock mounts and bushes, but no rear strut mounts to replace.

How long do front strut mounts last on a 2015 RAV4?

Many last well past 120,000 km, but lifespan depends on road conditions and load. If the steering feels notchy or there are clunks over bumps, have them checked sooner rather than later.

Can the bearing be replaced without the whole mount?

Often, yes—but replacing the complete mount assembly is commonly recommended for longevity and to avoid revisiting labour. After any mount or strut work, book an alignment.