Parts for your 2017 Toyota Rav4-Strut mounts

2017 Toyota RAV4 Strut Mounts — What They Do and When to Replace

For the 2017 Toyota RAV4 (XA40), strut mounts are absolutely relevant. Technical references such as Toyota’s Repair Manual and New Car Features guide specify a MacPherson strut front suspension, which uses a strut mount (also called a front suspension support with bearing) at the top of each front strut. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2013–2018 RAV4 likewise lists this component. The rear of this model uses a separate shock and control-arm setup, so there’s no rear strut mount.

Up front, the strut mount bolts the strut assembly to the body and isolates noise and vibration. Inside it sits a bearing that lets the strut smoothly rotate as the driver steers. That bearing support keeps steering light and consistent, and the rubber insulator helps protect the cabin from harshness on rough Aussie and Kiwi roads. A healthy mount also helps the RAV4 hold its alignment and tread evenly across the tyres.

There’s no hard-and-fast replacement interval. A good rule of thumb is to inspect the mounts whenever the front struts are replaced, or every 40,000–50,000 km as part of a suspension check. Many owners choose to replace mounts at the same time as struts to save on doubled-up labour and keep the front end feeling tight.

• Common signs they’re tired: clunks over bumps, a groan or creak when turning the wheel, vague steering on-centre, or uneven tyre wear.
• Visual giveaways: perished or cracked rubber, rust around the top hat, or a “mushroomed” look at the strut tower.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech but involves spring compression and correct torqueing, so it’s not a DIY job for most. Always do both fronts together, fit quality mounts with integrated bearings, and request a wheel alignment right after. On corrugated roads or with regular towing, consider shorter inspection intervals. Avoid jacking the vehicle by the strut tower, and don’t hammer the strut rod nut with an impact gun—both can shorten mount life.

Look after the mounts and the RAV4 rewards with quieter running, cleaner steering feel, and tyres that last the distance.

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota RAV4 strut mounts

Are strut mounts used on a 2017 Toyota RAV4?

Yes. The 2017 RAV4 uses MacPherson struts in the front, which include a strut mount and bearing at the top. The rear uses separate shocks, so no strut mounts at the back.

Toyota’s Repair Manual, New Car Features, and the parts catalogue for the XA40 series all describe the front strut support/mount as part of the assembly.

How long do RAV4 strut mounts typically last?

There’s no set kilometre limit, but many last well past 100,000 km in normal conditions. Rough roads, heavy loads, and big temperature swings can shorten their life.

Plan to inspect them at each service, and definitely when replacing front struts. If there’s noise, steering notchiness, or tyre wear, bring the check forward.

Do worn strut mounts affect steering and tyre wear?

They can. A worn mount or bearing can cause binding or clunks when turning, and small alignment shifts that show up as feathered or uneven tyre wear.

If those symptoms appear, have the mounts assessed and get a wheel alignment after any suspension work.