Parts for your 2016 Ford Everest-Struts

2016 Ford Everest: No struts fitted — here’s why, and what to service instead

For the 2016 Ford Everest, “struts” aren’t actually part of the suspension. Technical sources including the Ford Everest (UA, 2015–2018) Workshop Manual (Sections 204-01 Front Suspension and 204-02 Rear Suspension) and Ford Australia MY16 specification sheets describe the Everest as running an independent double-wishbone front suspension with a coil spring over a shock absorber, and a solid rear axle with Watt’s linkage, coil springs, and separate shock absorbers. That layout uses shock absorbers (dampers), not MacPherson struts.

Why no struts? A MacPherson strut is a load‑bearing damper that also locates the wheel. The Everest’s front end uses upper and lower control arms to locate the wheel, with the damper’s job limited to controlling motion. It’s a tougher setup for a ladder‑frame, off‑road SUV: better articulation, durability under towing and corrugations, and packaging that suits a live rear axle with a Watt’s link. So while some parts listings casually call the front coil-over assemblies “struts”, they’re technically shocks with separate control arms, not MacPherson struts.

• Front: Independent double wishbone, coil spring over shock, anti‑roll bar
• Rear: Solid axle, Watt’s linkage, coil springs, separate shocks
• Outcome: No MacPherson struts used on the 2016 Everest

What should owners service instead of “struts”? Focus on shocks (front and rear), upper/lower control arm bushes and ball joints, sway-bar links and bushes, top mounts, and wheel alignment. Signs your shocks are tired include bouncing after speed humps, nose‑dive under braking, sideways wallow in crosswinds, uneven tyre wear, clunks over bumps, or visible oil weep on the damper body.

When replacing shocks, do them in axle pairs and choose quality units suited to how the Everest is used—touring with a bit of weight on board might benefit from monotube or heavy‑duty valving. After front shock or control‑arm work, book a proper alignment to protect tyres and keep it tracking straight. If swapping front coil springs, a pre‑assembled coil‑over (with new mount and bearing) reduces risk compared with compressing springs on the bench. Torque suspension fasteners with the vehicle at ride height, and stick to the workshop manual specs. If in doubt, a licensed suspension shop will sort it without drama.

Bottom line: the 2016 Ford Everest doesn’t run struts. It runs shocks with control arms and a Watt’s link—robust, proven gear for Aussie and Kiwi roads and tracks.

• Popular questions about 2016 Ford Everest “struts”

Does a 2016 Ford Everest use struts or shocks?
The Everest uses shocks, not MacPherson struts. Up front it’s double wishbone with a coil spring over a shock, at the rear it’s a solid axle with Watt’s linkage, coil springs, and separate shocks.

What should be replaced if I was told my Everest needs “struts”?
They’re usually talking about the front shock and coil spring assembly, the top mount, or related bushes/ball joints. Ask for a proper inspection report listing shocks, mounts, control‑arm bushes/ball joints, and sway‑bar links.

Do I need a wheel alignment after shock replacement?
Yes—any front suspension work (shocks, control arms, or top mounts) should be followed by an alignment to protect tyres and restore correct handling.