Parts for your 2017 Ford Kuga-Strut mounts

2017 Ford Kuga strut mounts — what they do and when to sort them out

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant on the 2017 Ford Kuga. Technical references including the Ford Workshop Manual (Section 204-01, Front Suspension) and standard data providers such as Autodata and Haynes confirm the Kuga/Escape platform runs MacPherson struts at the front with a dedicated upper strut mount and bearing. The rear is a multi-link setup with separate coil springs and shock absorbers, so there are no rear “strut” mounts in the strict sense — just upper and lower shock mounts.

Up front, the strut mount bolts the strut to the body tower and isolates noise and vibration with a rubber insulator. Built into the mount is a thrust bearing that lets the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. That bearing is why a tired mount can make the steering feel sticky or cause “memory steer”. Keeping this bit healthy is key for quiet, precise steering and tidy tyre wear.

Owners typically notice a dull clunk over sharp bumps, creaks on low-speed turns, a notchiness at the wheel, or a front-end shimmy when the mounts are worn. Visual checks under the bonnet can show cracked rubber or a mount that sits off-centre. Any free play while rocking the strut top is a red flag.

There’s no fixed replacement interval — they’re a wear item that generally last a long time, often 80,000–150,000 kilometres, depending on roads and loads. Best practice is to replace strut mounts whenever new front struts are fitted, and always in axle pairs to keep steering feel even. A spring compressor is required, so it’s a job for a competent tech. After refit, a wheel alignment is essential to dial in camber and toe and avoid chewing out tyres.

• Replace the mount and bearing together, inspect dust boots and bump stops at the same time.
• Listen for clunks and creaks on test drives, check for memory steer after tight turns.
• Torque fasteners with the suspension at normal ride height to avoid rubber pre-load.

Look after the mounts and the Kuga’s front end stays quiet, the steering stays light and true, and the tyres live a longer, happier life on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

What are the signs of bad strut mounts on a 2017 Ford Kuga?
Common tells include clunks over potholes, creaks when parking, heavy or notchy steering, and the wheel not self-centring cleanly. Uneven front tyre wear and a slight vibration over coarse chip can also point to a tired mount or bearing.

Do the rear shocks on a 2017 Kuga have strut mounts?
No. The rear uses separate shocks and springs, so it has shock mounts, not strut mounts. Only the front of the 2017 Kuga uses MacPherson struts with top mounts and bearings.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Any time the front struts or top mounts are disturbed, an alignment is recommended to set camber and toe correctly and protect tyre life.