Parts for your 2017 Mazda Cx-5-Strut mounts

2017 Mazda CX-5 Strut Mounts

Technical references confirm the 2017 Mazda CX‑5 (KF series) uses MacPherson struts at the front, which require dedicated strut mounts. This is documented in the Mazda Workshop Manual (Front Suspension), Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), and widely supported by reputable aftermarket catalogues that list front strut mounts/top mounts and bearing plates for the 2017 CX‑5. The rear is a multi‑link setup with separate dampers and does not use a strut‑type top mount.

The front strut mount on a 2017 CX‑5 is the part that bolts the strut assembly to the body under the bonnet, isolating vibration and allowing the strut to pivot as the wheels steer. Inside the mount is a rubber insulator (to soak up harshness) and a bearing (so the spring and strut can rotate smoothly). When it’s healthy, steering feels light and precise, and road noise is kept nicely in check.

Over time, the rubber can harden or crack, and the bearing can bind or wear. That’s when owners may notice clunks over speed humps, creaks at parking speeds, a notchy or “memory steer” feel on centre, or slightly uneven tyre wear despite correct alignment. Because the mount sits at the top of the strut tower, any play there is multiplied into steering feel and noise inside the cabin.

Best practice is to inspect the strut mounts whenever front struts, springs, or front brakes are serviced, and at least every 20,000–30,000 km during routine checks. If the CX‑5 is approaching higher kilometres, has seen rough roads, or the original struts are due, it’s smart to replace the mounts at the same time as the struts. Doing both in one go saves labour and ensures the new damper isn’t paired with a tired top mount that could shorten service life.

Replacement is straightforward for an experienced tech with a spring compressor. Quality OE‑equivalent mounts and integrated bearings are readily available. After installation, a wheel alignment is recommended to lock in proper steering feel and tyre wear. Keeping the front end tight with fresh mounts restores that tidy Mazda steering the CX‑5 is known for, cuts down on cabin rattles, and helps tyres last the distance.

• Watch for: clunks, creaks, notchy steering, tramlining, and uneven front tyre wear.
• Replace in pairs with struts for best results, re‑check torque after initial settling if specified by the part maker.

Do all 2017 CX‑5s have strut mounts front and rear?

Front, yes. The KF CX‑5 runs MacPherson struts up front, so it uses strut mounts with integrated bearings. The rear is a multi‑link setup with separate shocks and coils, so no rear strut mounts are used there.

What are the common signs a CX‑5 strut mount is worn?

Tell‑tales include clunks over bumps, creaking at low speeds, a springy or notchy steering feel, and steering that doesn’t self‑centre cleanly. Uneven front tyre wear or a drifting wheel alignment can also point to a tired top mount or bearing.

When should CX‑5 strut mounts be replaced?

They’re often replaced with the front struts, typically somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km depending on road conditions. If any noise, play, or bearing bind is found during inspection, replace sooner. Always follow with a proper wheel alignment.