Parts for your 2017 Ford Escape-Strut mounts

Maintaining and Replacing Strut Mounts on Your 2017 Ford Escape

Owning a 2017 Ford Escape means you're driving a vehicle designed to blend comfort with practicality, and part of that comfort comes from its suspension system. The strut mounts play a pivotal role in ensuring that your journey remains smooth and sound. To maintain that, it's important to keep these components in check and understand when they might need replacement.

A strut mount is more than just a bracket that connects the strut to the vehicle. It also functions as a noise and vibration dampener and provides a pivot point for the steering system. In essence, it's a critical component that contributes to the overall ride quality and handling of your vehicle. For Ford Escape owners, understanding the role of strut mounts and making sure they are in good condition is key to preserving the driving experience that the Escape is known for.

• **Signs of Wear and Tear:** Like many components in your vehicle, strut mounts can wear out over time. Symptoms might include unusual noises such as clunking or creaking sounds when driving over bumps or while steering. If the steering feels less responsive or you notice uneven tyre wear, it might be a sign that the strut mounts are deteriorating. Paying attention to these indicators can help you prevent more significant issues down the line.
• **Inspection Routine:** Regular inspections as part of your vehicle's service schedule can help catch these problems early. While tyres are being rotated or brakes inspected, it's a good opportunity to have a qualified mechanic check the strut mounts for any signs of wear or damage.

Replacing strut mounts might appear daunting at first, but it is a straightforward process when handled by an experienced professional. Here are some insights into the replacement and maintenance of strut mounts for your Ford Escape:

1. Preparation: Before undertaking any repairs, ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface and that the wheels are chocked to prevent rolling. If you're doing this at home, make sure you have the proper tools and equipment ready.
2. Accessing the Strut Mounts: You'll need to remove the necessary components to access the strut mounts. This generally involves removing the wheel and safely supporting the vehicle using a jack stand. Once the wheel is off, you can start accessing the strut assembly.
3. Removing the Old Strut Mounts: With the strut fully exposed, you'll need to remove the bolts that secure the strut mount in place. Be prepared for some resistance, as these bolts can be tightened securely to maintain stability. Once unfastened, the strut assembly should be detached, allowing access to the mount for removal.
4. Evaluating the Strut Assembly: It's always good practice to inspect the entire strut assembly once the mount is removed. Look for any signs of fluid leaks or other damage that might indicate the struts themselves need replacing.
5. Installing New Strut Mounts: Position the new strut mount in place, ensuring it is aligned correctly, and then secure it with bolts. Make sure each bolt is tightened to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure safety and performance.
6. Reassembling and Testing: Once the new strut mounts are installed, reassemble the strut assembly back into the vehicle. Install the wheel and lower the vehicle off the jack stand. A short test drive can be useful to ensure everything is functioning as expected and that any previous noises or issues have been resolved.

Maintaining strut mounts should be part of your regular vehicle upkeep, much like oil changes or brake checks. Properly functioning strut mounts contribute significantly to the handling, comfort, and overall safety of your Ford Escape. Regular maintenance and listening for signs of trouble can prevent small issues from becoming costly repairs down the track. By taking care of these seemingly small components, you're preserving the longevity and reliability of your vehicle on all of life's adventures.