Parts for your 2018 Ford Transit-Strut mounts

2018 Ford Transit Strut Mounts

Technical sources confirm the 2018 Ford Transit uses front strut mounts. The Ford Workshop Manual for the 2018 Transit (Section 204-01, Front Suspension) specifies a MacPherson strut assembly with an upper strut mount and bearing. Ford parts catalogues also list a front upper mount/bearing for this model, and major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., KYB and Monroe) offer front strut-mount kits covering 2015–2019 Transit vans. That means strut mounts are relevant at the front. The rear runs leaf springs with separate shock absorbers, so there are no rear strut mounts.

On a Transit, the strut mount’s job is two-fold: it secures the top of the MacPherson strut to the body and it isolates vibration and road harshness via a rubber insulator. Built into the mount is a bearing that lets the strut pivot smoothly as the driver turns the steering. Good mounts keep steering light and consistent, cut down on cabin noise, and help the van track straight even with a load on board.

• Common signs of tired strut mounts: clunks over bumps, creaks or groans while turning, heavy or “notchy” steering, steering that doesn’t return to centre (memory steer), and uneven tyre wear.

There’s no fixed replacement interval in the factory literature, but for Aussie and Kiwi roads—and the loads these vans often carry—it pays to inspect the front strut mounts every 20,000 km or 12 months. Look for perished rubber, cracked housings, rust at the strut tower, and play or roughness in the bearing while the strut turns. Whenever front struts are replaced (typically around 100,000–150,000 km depending on use), it’s smart practice to fit new mounts and bearings at the same time. Replace mounts in pairs, use new self-locking hardware, and torque fasteners to spec with the suspension at normal ride height to avoid preload and noise. After any strut or mount work, a wheel alignment is recommended, mount wear or alteration can shift camber and toe. While DIY is possible with the right spring compressors and safety gear, many owners prefer a trusted workshop to handle the high spring loads and ensure the ABS wiring and brake hose brackets are routed correctly. Choosing quality OE-equivalent mounts keeps steering feel consistent and reduces NVH, which is exactly what a hard-working Transit owner wants.

Popular questions

Does the 2018 Ford Transit have strut mounts?
Yes—at the front. The 2018 Transit uses a MacPherson strut front suspension with a rubber-isolated top mount and integrated bearing. The rear uses leaf springs and separate shocks, so there are no rear strut mounts.

How long do Transit strut mounts last, and should they be changed with the struts?
There’s no set kilometre limit. Many last well past 100,000 km, but rough roads, heavy payloads, and frequent stop–start work shorten their life. It’s good practice to replace mounts and bearings whenever the front struts are changed to avoid repeat labour and restore steering smoothness.

Do strut mounts affect wheel alignment?
They can. Changing mounts or loosening the strut can alter camber and toe slightly. A professional alignment after replacement ensures proper tyre wear and on-centre steering.