Parts for your 2017 Holden Colorado-Struts

Understanding Struts on the 2017 Holden Colorado

The 2017 Holden Colorado is a tough, reliable ute built for both work and play. When it comes to the suspension system, one common question that pops up is whether struts are part of this vehicle's setup. After digging into the technical specs and workshop manuals, it turns out that the 2017 Holden Colorado does not use struts in its suspension system. Instead, it features a more traditional suspension layout that favours shock absorbers and coil springs on the front end.

So why are struts not used on the 2017 Holden Colorado? It primarily comes down to the vehicle's design and purpose. Struts are typically found on passenger cars and light SUVs where independent front suspension is common. They serve a dual function, acting as both a damper and a structural component that supports the vehicle's weight and suspension geometry. However, the Holden Colorado is built tougher with a focus on load capacity and off-road capability. Rather than struts, it uses shocks and coil springs as separate components, which is more durable and easier to service on rugged work vehicles.

Struts combine the shock absorber and a structural support for the vehicle's suspension into a single unit. Because they take on this structural role, strut assemblies are usually part of front suspension designs that use a MacPherson strut layout, common on many cars. The Holden Colorado, on the other hand, uses a double wishbone front suspension system, which relies on separate shocks and springs rather than struts. This setup can better handle rough terrain and heavy loads that a ute like the Colorado regularly faces.

Even though the Holden Colorado does not use struts, understanding what struts do and how to maintain them can be useful for owners of vehicles that do have them. For those who have heard about struts, here's a bit of a breakdown on what they are and how to look after them if your ride is fitted with them.

Struts are crucial suspension components that help absorb shocks from the road, keeping the ride smooth and stable. They also play a key role in steering and vehicle alignment because they help hold the wheel in place. Over time, struts can wear out due to constant use and exposure to rough roads, which can affect ride comfort, vehicle handling and even safety.

When it comes to servicing struts, there are some handy tips to keep in mind. Worn struts might lead to symptoms like excessive bouncing, uneven tyre wear, or a knocking noise over bumps. Regular inspections during servicing are important to spot signs of oil leaks or damaged mounts. If the ride feels off or handling seems sloppy, it could be time to replace the struts.

Replacing struts isn't usually a quick DIY job, as it involves working with the suspension spring under tension, which can be dangerous without the proper tools. Most mechanics will recommend replacing struts in pairs (both sides on the same axle) to maintain balanced handling. Quality replacement struts can improve ride quality and restore your vehicle's driving performance.

In addition to replacing worn struts, it's wise to keep up with suspension checks as part of routine maintenance. Suspension components are easy to forget but play a huge role in vehicle safety and comfort. Getting a mechanic to regularly inspect the shocks, springs, and all suspension bushings can help catch any issues early, preventing more costly repairs down the track.

So while the 2017 Holden Colorado does not come equipped with struts thanks to its rugged suspension design, understanding how struts work and their role in other vehicles provides useful insight. For Holden Colorado owners, maintaining the shocks and springs is the way to go, but for those with cars or SUVs sporting strut-based suspensions, prompt attention to this part keeps the vehicle comfortable and safe on the road.