Parts for your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok-Strut mounts

Strut Mounts on the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Volkswagen Amarok is a popular mid-size ute designed for tough work and easy comfort across Australian roads and off-road conditions. When it comes to suspension components, many people often wonder if strut mounts are part of this vehicle's setup. To clarify, the 2017 Amarok does not use strut mounts because it is not fitted with a strut-type front suspension system. Instead, the Amarok employs a double wishbone front suspension combined with coil springs and shock absorbers.

Let's break that down a bit. Strut mounts are typically found on vehicles with a MacPherson strut front suspension design. This setup integrates a shock absorber and a coil spring into one assembly, which bolts directly to the car's body using a strut mount. The strut mount then serves as the interface between the suspension and the vehicle's chassis, isolating vibration and allowing the strut to pivot when the wheels turn.

However, the 2017 Amarok's double wishbone suspension uses separate shock absorbers and coil springs, which do not require strut mounts. Instead, shocks are mounted with traditional bushings and hardware that provide a solid yet flexible connection to the chassis and suspension arms. Because of this, strut mounts are simply not part of the Amarok's front suspension design, and they do not have a role in the rear suspension either.

So why does the Amarok skip strut mounts altogether? The double wishbone design offers several advantages that suit the Amarok's purpose. This setup gives better wheel control, improved handling, and durability - features that matter when you're hauling heavy loads or charging through dirt tracks. The absence of strut mounts means fewer components that might wear out, and a more robust configuration that's easier to service and maintain for a tough ute like the Amarok.

While strut mounts aren't on the Amarok's checklist, it's still crucial to keep all suspension components in good nick to ensure a smooth ride and safe handling. Shock absorbers, bushings, and ball joints should be checked regularly, especially if you're doing lots of off-road driving or carrying heavy loads. Signs of wear might include clunking noises, uneven tyre wear, or a bouncier ride, all of which indicate it's time for a careful inspection.

For owners who might be more familiar with other vehicles using MacPherson strut designs, strut mounts often get overlooked until they start causing issues like noise, steering difficulties, or vibration. Although they are not part of the Amarok, understanding their purpose helps clarify why the Amarok's setup is different and built specifically for rugged use.