Parts for your 2017 Ford Escape-Strut mounts

2017 Ford Escape strut-mounts — fitment, purpose, and service tips

For the 2017 Ford Escape, strut-mounts are absolutely relevant. Technical references including the Ford Workshop Manual (Front Suspension, Section 204-01) identify a front MacPherson strut layout with an upper mount and bearing, and the Ford/Motorcraft parts catalogue lists a front strut top mount and separate bearing for this model year. The rear uses a multi-link setup with separate shock absorbers, so no rear strut-mounts are fitted.

Up front, the strut-mount does two key jobs: it anchors the strut assembly to the body, and it isolates noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) through its rubber/laminate construction. Paired with an integrated bearing, it also lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When a mount or its bearing wears, drivers may notice clunks over bumps, a knock when starting or stopping, or a graunching/creaking feel when turning at low speed. Steering might self-centre poorly, and tyres can wear unevenly.

There’s no fixed replacement interval in Ford service literature, but in Aussie and Kiwi conditions many owners see mounts last 80,000–150,000 kilometres. It’s smart to inspect them any time the front suspension is apart, at regular service intervals, or if there are NVH complaints. Look for perished rubber, separated bonding, deformed mount plates, or a notchy/rough feel from the bearing when the spring and strut are rotated on a bench.

• Best practice is to replace mounts and bearings in pairs (left and right) to keep steering feel consistent.
• If the vehicle is getting new front struts or springs, fit new mounts and bearings at the same time to avoid doubling up on labour.
• Use quality OE-equivalent components, cheap mounts can transmit vibration and fail early.
• Avoid hammering the centre nut with a rattle gun through the bearing — it can bruise the race. Hold the strut shaft per service procedure and torque to spec.
• After any front strut/mount work, book a wheel alignment. Check sway bar links and top nuts for proper torque, and road test for NVH.

If a 2017 Escape shows repeated top-mount noise after fitting, re-check spring clocking in the seat, make sure the bearing is oriented correctly, and confirm the upper nuts are tightened per Ford procedure. These simple steps restore that tidy, quiet steering feel the Escape is known for.

Popular questions about 2017 Ford Escape strut-mounts

Do all four corners of a 2017 Escape have strut-mounts?
The front does. The rear does not. The rear suspension uses separate shocks and coils, so there are no rear strut-mounts on this model.

How long do front strut-mounts last on a 2017 Escape?
There’s no fixed schedule, but many last 80,000–150,000 kilometres. Replace if there’s clunking over bumps, creaking while turning, notchy steering feel, or visible rubber deterioration.

Can the strut-mount be replaced without changing the strut?
Yes. If the strut is still healthy, the mount and bearing can be replaced on their own. If the struts are older or leaking, it’s efficient to do both together and then get an alignment.