Parts for your 2016 Holden Commodore-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2016 Holden Commodore

The 2016 Holden Commodore is a well-regarded Australian sedan known for its combination of performance and comfort. When it comes to its suspension setup, many owners and enthusiasts might wonder whether strut mounts are part of the equation, or if they're even necessary for this particular model.

To clarify, strut mounts are typically a feature of MacPherson strut suspension systems, where the strut assembly acts as both a shock absorber and a structural part of the suspension. The mount connects the strut to the car's chassis and plays an important role in isolating road noise and vibrations. But the Commodore's rear and front suspension design influences whether or not strut mounts are part of the setup.

For the 2016 Holden Commodore, especially the VF series, the front suspension uses a double wishbone (or double A-arm) setup rather than a MacPherson strut design. This means there is no conventional strut assembly and thus no strut mounts at the front. The rear suspension often uses a multi-link design with coil springs and separate shock absorbers, again without integrated struts. As a result, strut mounts are not fitted to the 2016 Commodore because the vehicle's suspension architecture does not employ MacPherson struts that would require them.

Why does the 2016 Holden Commodore use this suspension configuration? Double wishbone and multi-link setups are often chosen for mid-sized to large sedans because they can provide better handling, ride comfort, and greater control over wheel alignment settings. These systems rely on separate springs and dampers, connected through control arms and mounts, rather than integrated strut assemblies. Because of this design, the kind of strut mounts you'd find on cars with MacPherson struts are simply unnecessary here.

So what does this mean for owners? In terms of suspension maintenance and servicing, the focus shifts away from strut mounts and more toward other key components such as bushings, control arms, sway bar links, and the separate shock absorbers themselves. These parts require regular inspections for wear or damage, as well as timely replacements to ensure the Commodore continues to offer a smooth and controlled ride.

Just to touch on strut mounts in general, for those curious or for owners of vehicles that do employ MacPherson strut systems, strut mounts serve multiple purposes. They provide a secure connection point between the suspension strut and the vehicle body, help absorb road vibrations, and often incorporate bearing surfaces to allow the strut to pivot when steering. If these mounts wear out, drivers might hear clunking noises, experience uneven steering feedback, or feel increased vibration inside the cabin.

Replacing strut mounts in vehicles that have them is a crucial upkeep item, often best done when changing the struts themselves. Trying to replace strut mounts without removing the struts is usually impractical. Signs that strut mounts need replacing include unusual noises over bumps, poor ride quality, or steering issues. It's important to use quality replacement parts and proper tools, as incorrect installation can lead to premature wear or suspension issues.

Back to the 2016 Holden Commodore, with no strut mounts to worry about, owners can rest easy knowing their suspension setup is quite different. Regular maintenance still remains key to handling and ride quality, focusing on the integrity of the control arms, shocks, and other suspension bushings. Keeping these components in good order will maintain the smooth and reliable drive the Commodore is known for.

If you're ever unsure about your suspension or hear noises coming from the front or rear wheel areas, it's a good idea to have a professional technician check the control arm bushes, shock absorber mounts, and the overall suspension condition. Because strut mounts are not part of this vehicle's setup, confusion about their presence in the Commodore can often be cleared up by simply understanding the suspension type used.

In short, while strut mounts are essential parts of many vehicles' suspension systems, the 2016 Holden Commodore's use of double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear arrangement means they are not fitted on this car. Instead, focus shifts towards maintaining other suspension components to keep the Aussie favourite driving just right.