Parts for your 2017 Ford Focus-Strut mounts

Maintaining and Replacing Strut Mounts on Your 2017 Ford Focus

If you're the proud owner of a 2017 Ford Focus, understanding the importance of strut mounts can significantly contribute to maintaining your vehicle's performance and comfort. Strut mounts, an essential component of your car's suspension system, connect the struts to your vehicle and serve several vital functions. They not only help absorb road shocks to ensure a smooth ride but also play a crucial role in providing optimal steering and alignment.

Regularly maintaining your strut mounts can avert potential issues, ensuring your Ford Focus remains steady and responsive on the road. Over time, these mounts can wear out due to regular driving conditions, changes in temperature, and road hazards. Therefore, staying informed about their condition is key to your vehicle's safety and longevity.

Here are some signs that your strut mounts may need attention:

• Unusual Noises: If you notice clunking, creaking, or rattling sounds when driving over bumps or turning, it could indicate worn strut mounts.
• Vibrations: Excessive vibrations felt in the steering wheel or through the floor when driving may suggest a problem with the suspension system, including the strut mounts.
• Poor Steering Response: Difficulty steering or a noticeable delay in response may be a sign that your strut mounts require examination.
• Uneven Tyre Wear: If your tyres are wearing unevenly, especially if concentrated on one side, the strut mounts might be contributing to misalignment.
• Sagging or Tilted Vehicle: A visibly tilted vehicle or one side sitting lower than the other can point to strut mount issues.

If your Ford Focus exhibits any of these symptoms, inspecting your strut mounts and the entire suspension system is advisable. Here's a straightforward guide to help you navigate maintaining or replacing your strut mounts:

1. Assessment: Begin with a visual inspection. Look for visible cracks, corrosion, or general wear and tear on the strut mounts. Check for uneven gaps between the body and wheels.
2. Plan the Replacement: If the mounts show signs of wear, you may need to replace them. It's often wise to replace them in pairs (front or rear) to maintain balanced handling and ride quality.
3. Necessary Tools and Equipment: Before starting, make sure you have all necessary hand tools, a jack and jack stands, wrenches, and a torque wrench for precision.
4. Suspend the Vehicle: Safely lift your Ford Focus with a jack and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the car is stable before commencing any work.
5. Remove the Strut Assembly: Carefully remove the wheel and the old strut assembly. This requires disconnecting it from the suspension system, often using a combination of tools to safely disengage various components.
6. Replace the Strut Mount: With the strut assembly out, replace the old mount with a new one. Ensure that the replacement mount is compatible with your Ford Focus specs.
7. Reinstall the Strut Assembly: Carefully reposition the strut assembly back in place and secure all components. Make sure all connections are properly torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
8. Reassemble: Reattach the wheel and carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Check the tyre pressure and alignment to confirm everything has been properly adjusted.

While it's possible to replace strut mounts yourself, the process requires a moderate level of mechanical skill. If in doubt, it's always best to have a professional mechanic handle the replacement to ensure everything is correctly installed.

Remember that strut mounts are just a part of the overall suspension system. Routine checks can help prevent further damage and ensure prolonged reliability and comfort. By keeping your strut mounts in top condition, you guarantee a smoother, safer drive in your 2017 Ford Focus for years to come.