Parts for your 2017 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Strut mounts

2017 Toyota Vitz/Yaris Strut Mounts

Per Toyota New Car Features (NCF) for the XP130 series and the Toyota Repair Manual (Suspension – Front: MacPherson Strut), the 2017 Toyota Vitz/Yaris runs a MacPherson strut front end that uses strut mounts with an integrated bearing. The rear is a torsion beam with separate shock absorbers, so there are no rear strut mounts. That makes strut mounts relevant to the front of a 2017 Vitz/Yaris.

On this model, the strut mount sits at the very top of the front strut assembly, tying the strut to the body and letting the strut turn smoothly as the wheels steer. It does two big jobs: it isolates thumps and vibration from rough Kiwi and Aussie roads, and it provides a low-friction pivot so the steering feels light and consistent. The rubber insulator in the mount soaks up noise and harshness, while the bearing section keeps steering from feeling notchy or “sticking”.

During servicing, a quick visual and hands-on check of the front strut mounts is well worth it. Look for cracked or perished rubber around the mount, any signs the strut shaft is off-centre in the tower, or a “mushroomed” top. On a road test, pay attention to clunks over speed bumps, a dull thud over potholes, steering that doesn’t self-centre cleanly, or a creak when turning at parking speeds. Uneven front tyre wear and vague turn-in can also point to tired mounts.

There’s no hard-and-fast replacement interval, but many mounts last 80,000–150,000 km depending on roads and load. If the front struts are being replaced, it’s smart practice to fit new OE-quality mounts and bearings at the same time to avoid doubling up on labour. Always replace in left/right pairs, use a proper spring compressor, and torque the top nut and fasteners to spec with the vehicle at ride height. Follow up with a wheel alignment to keep steering feel and tyre life on the money. While you’re in there, check the dust boots and bump stops, swap them if they’re cracked or crumbly.

For day-to-day care, ask the workshop to inspect the front strut mounts at major services or WOF/reg check time. Keeping the steering and suspension tight doesn’t just make the Yaris/Vitz nicer to drive—it helps protect tyres, struts and other front-end components from premature wear.

• Fitted on this vehicle: Front strut mounts with bearings (MacPherson strut)
• Not fitted on this vehicle: Rear strut mounts (rear uses torsion beam with separate shocks)

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Vitz/Yaris strut mounts

Do the front and rear of a 2017 Vitz/Yaris both use strut mounts?

No. The front uses MacPherson struts with strut mounts and bearings. The rear is a torsion beam with standalone shock absorbers, so there are no rear strut mounts to replace.

How long do front strut mounts typically last on a 2017 Yaris/Vitz?

It varies with driving and road conditions, but many last 80,000–150,000 km. They should be inspected at major services and usually replaced when the front struts are renewed, or sooner if there are clunks, creaks, or steering notchiness.

Is it safe to keep driving with a worn strut mount?

It’ll often still drive, but steering feel, braking stability and tyre life can suffer. A badly worn mount can worsen quickly, so it’s wise to book replacement rather than put up with noises or vague steering.