Parts for your 2017 Mazda Cx-5-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2017 Mazda CX-5: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is a well-engineered SUV known for its smooth ride and solid handling. When it comes to suspension components like bump-stops, many owners and enthusiasts often wonder if this part is fitted and if it plays an important role in the vehicle's performance. Technically speaking, bump-stops are either incorporated directly into the suspension design or integrated in a way that might not be immediately obvious. For the 2017 Mazda CX-5, bump-stops are indeed used, serving a critical function to protect the suspension and ensure a comfortable driving experience.

Bump-stops, sometimes called jounce bumpers, are those underrated components that make a noticeable difference when the suspension travels to its limits. Simply put, they prevent metal-to-metal contact within the suspension system when the wheels move upward aggressively, such as over large potholes, bumps, or during hard cornering and braking. Without bump-stops, suspension components could slam into one another, causing damage, noisy clunks, and a harsh ride quality. On the 2017 Mazda CX-5, these bump-stops contribute significantly to durability and comfort.

Located usually on the shock absorbers or coil springs, bump-stops absorb shock and reduce the impact forces transferred to the chassis and suspension. This cushioning protects components such as the struts, control arms, and mounts from wear and premature failure. Moreover, bump-stops help maintain suspension geometry and alignment by preventing excessive travel which might otherwise alter the suspension angles and affect handling.

When maintaining a 2017 Mazda CX-5, servicing the bump-stops is often overlooked but is an important part of suspension health. Over time, bump-stops are subjected to constant compression, exposure to dirt, moisture, and general wear and tear. They're typically made of rubber or urethane, and these materials can degrade, crack or become brittle. This wear reduces their ability to cushion impacts efficiently and can lead to harsher suspension behaviour and even damage to other suspension components.

Regular inspection of bump-stops during routine servicing can prevent costly repairs down the track. Here are some key points to keep in mind about bump-stop maintenance for your 2017 Mazda CX-5:

• Look for visible signs of cracking, splitting, or deformation in the bump-stop material.
• Listen for unusual knocking noises or harsh impacts when driving over bumps, as these could indicate worn bump-stops.
• Check for excessive suspension movement or bottoming out that feels harder or different compared to before.
• During suspension servicing or shock absorber replacement, ensure that bump-stops are also inspected and replaced if needed.

Replacing bump-stops is generally a straightforward and cost-effective repair. On the 2017 Mazda CX-5, replacement parts are widely available and relatively inexpensive. It's advisable to replace bump-stops in pairs, matching front with front and rear with rear, to maintain balanced suspension behaviour. Doing so helps preserve ride comfort, vehicle control, and suspension longevity.

For Australian drivers who frequently encounter rough roads, potholes, or off-road conditions, bump-stops are particularly important. These real-world driving scenarios put extra strain on your CX-5's suspension system, making it crucial to keep bump-stops in good condition. Remember that while your vehicle is designed to cope with a wide range of road conditions, the suspension components rely on each other to work properly.

In terms of DIY maintenance, bump-stops are generally not something most owners will replace themselves unless they have some mechanical experience. Accessing these components often requires removing the shock absorber or strut assembly. As such, it is usually best to have a qualified technician inspect and replace bump-stops during a suspension service or when shocks and struts are being changed.

Keeping your bump-stops healthy also has an indirect effect on other vehicle systems. A worn bump-stop can cause misalignment issues or extra wear on tyres due to altered suspension travel and impact forces. So, addressing these small parts early can help avoid bigger, more expensive problems in the long run.

In short, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 does use bump-stops, and they play an important role in protecting the suspension, improving ride comfort, and maintaining vehicle control. While they might not be top of mind during routine maintenance, bump-stops deserve regular attention and should be replaced if found to be degraded or damaged. Keeping them in tip-top shape ensures that your Mazda CX-5 continues to deliver the reliable and enjoyable driving experience it was designed for.