Parts for your 2017 Isuzu D-max-Strut mounts

2017 Isuzu D‑MAX strut-mounts — do they actually apply?

Short answer: no. Based on the Isuzu UTE Australia MY17 D‑MAX specifications and the factory workshop manual for this generation, the front suspension is an independent double‑wishbone design with coil springs over gas shock absorbers and a stabiliser bar. There’s no MacPherson strut assembly, so a traditional strut‑mount (with an integrated thrust bearing that turns with the steering) isn’t used on a 2017 Isuzu D‑MAX.

That double‑wishbone layout uses an upper and lower control arm to locate the steering knuckle. The shock absorber and coil sit between the lower arm and the chassis, and the shock’s top is secured to the chassis tower via a rubber insulator/top plate. While some aftermarket listings loosely call that upper insulator a “strut mount”, it’s not a strut top in the MacPherson sense because it doesn’t carry steering loads or contain a bearing. This architecture is documented in the factory service information and in the MY17 D‑MAX spec sheets that state “independent double wishbone, coil spring, gas shock absorbers” up front.

Why did Isuzu go this way? Utes like the D‑MAX benefit from the durability and geometry control of double wishbones for off‑road work, towing and payload. It keeps steering loads in the ball joints and control arms, not through a strut tower and bearing.

What should owners look at instead of “strut‑mounts”? When chasing front‑end clunks, squeaks or vague steering on a 2017 D‑MAX, the usual suspects are:

• Upper shock insulator/top plate and the shock absorber bushings
• Upper and lower control‑arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser (sway) bar links and bushes

If the front shocks are being replaced, it’s good practice to inspect and renew the upper insulator/top plate if the rubber is cracked, collapsed or perished. After any suspension work or if ride height has been altered, book a wheel alignment to keep tyre wear and handling in check. If considering spacer “strut tops” for lift, note these are actually top‑out spacers above the shock assembly, they can affect CV angles and droop, so stick to reputable kits and check local compliance rules in Australia and New Zealand.

Popular questions about 2017 Isuzu D‑MAX strut-mounts

Does a 2017 D‑MAX have front strut‑mounts?
No. The 2017 D‑MAX uses independent double wishbones with coil‑over shocks, so there’s no MacPherson strut or strut‑mount with a bearing. The shock top locates in the chassis with a simple rubber insulator/top plate.

What should I replace instead of a “strut‑mount” on a D‑MAX?
When refreshing the front end, look at the front shock absorbers, the upper shock insulator/top plate, control‑arm bushes and ball joints, and sway‑bar links and bushes. These are the wear items that typically cause noise or looseness.

Can I fit aftermarket “strut top” spacers to lift my D‑MAX?
Spacer plates can be fitted above the shock top plate, but they’re not true strut mounts. They change droop and CV angles, so keep lifts sensible, pair them with appropriate shocks/springs, get an alignment, and make sure the setup complies with local road rules.