Parts for your 2016 Mazda Cx-5-Struts

2016 Mazda CX-5 struts: what they do and how to look after them

Struts are absolutely relevant to the 2016 Mazda CX-5. Technical sources including the Mazda 2016 CX-5 Workshop Manual (Front Suspension: MacPherson Strut), Mazda product/training material for the KE/KF CX-5 update, and major fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe all specify MacPherson struts at the front, with a multi-link rear using separate shock absorbers (not rear struts).

On the CX-5, the front MacPherson strut is a structural part of the suspension and steering. It supports vehicle weight, controls body motion, and keeps tyre contact consistent by managing rebound and compression. The strut assembly integrates the damper, coil spring, upper mount/bearing and dust boot, so it influences ride height, steering feel, and braking stability. A healthy strut set helps the CX-5 track straight, corner neatly, and stop predictably on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

For servicing, workshops typically inspect front struts every service interval or at least every 20,000–30,000 kilometres. Tell-tales of wear include oily misting or leaks on the strut body, cupped or feathered tyre wear, clunks over bumps, nose-diving under brakes, floaty behaviour at motorway speeds, and steering wander. In normal use, many CX-5 front struts last 80,000–150,000 kilometres, but harsh roads, heavy loads, and frequent gravel driving can shorten that.

Best practice is to replace struts in axle pairs, renew the upper mounts/bearings, and fit new boots and bump-stops at the same time. Where feasible, complete loaded strut assemblies can reduce labour and avoid spring compressor risks, if reusing springs, correct compressor technique and torque-to-spec at ride height are essential. A four-wheel alignment is recommended after any strut work, as camber/caster and toe can shift during replacement.

Owners benefit from keeping tyres correctly inflated, rotating on schedule, and addressing any suspension noises early—small bush or mount issues can accelerate strut wear if ignored. Quality OE-equivalent struts maintain the CX-5’s balanced ride-handling mix, preserving grip in the wet and reducing braking distances on corrugations and chip-seal common across Australia and New Zealand.

• Inspect: leaks, boot damage, mount play, uneven tyre wear.
• Replace in pairs, add mounts/boots, align afterwards.
• Choose reputable OE-spec brands for consistent ride and durability.

Popular questions about 2016 Mazda CX-5 struts

Does the 2016 CX-5 have struts front and rear?
The 2016 CX-5 uses MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear with separate shock absorbers. So, front = struts, rear = shocks, not struts. This layout balances steering precision with comfortable ride quality.

How long do front struts last on a 2016 CX-5?
Many last 80,000–150,000 km depending on roads and loads. Look for oil seepage, clunks, float, or uneven tyre wear. If those appear—or after a significant pothole or kerb strike—have a technician inspect and plan pairwise replacement.

Is a wheel alignment needed after strut replacement?
Yes. Strut replacement can alter camber and toe. A proper alignment restores steering feel, reduces tyre wear, and ensures the CX-5 tracks straight, especially important after front-end suspension work.