Parts for your 2018 Holden Colorado-Strut mounts

Strut Mounts on the 2018 Holden Colorado: What You Need to Know

The 2018 Holden Colorado is a sturdy and reliable ute, popular among Aussie drivers who need a tough vehicle for both work and play. When it comes to the suspension setup of the Colorado, understanding whether it uses strut mounts is important for those keen on vehicle maintenance or upgrades. So, does the 2018 Holden Colorado have strut mounts? Let's dive into the technical side to clear things up.

Strut mounts are typically found in vehicles that use a MacPherson strut suspension design. They act like a bridge between the strut assembly and the chassis. The mount secures the strut in place while allowing it to pivot as the wheels move, absorbing shocks and impacts from the road. They also often incorporate a bearing that helps the strut rotate smoothly when steering. However, not all vehicles use MacPherson struts - some have different suspension types that do not require strut mounts.

Now, the 2018 Holden Colorado does not use MacPherson strut suspension at the front. Instead, it features an independent double wishbone suspension setup. This design utilises upper and lower control arms with coil springs and shock absorbers, rather than struts that combine the spring and damper into one component. Because of this setup, the Holden Colorado does not rely on strut mounts.

The double wishbone design provides better control and durability for a vehicle like the Colorado, which is often used in rougher conditions. Since the shocks and springs are separate components, there is no need for a strut mount to connect and pivot as seen in MacPherson strut arrangements. Instead, the upper and lower control arms attach directly to the chassis with specific bushings and mounts designed for that kind of suspension.

So, if someone is searching for replacement strut mounts for a 2018 Holden Colorado, they won't find any because the vehicle simply does not use them. Instead, maintenance and replacement work would focus on other suspension parts such as the shock absorbers, coil springs, control arm bushings, and ball joints.

While the Colorado skips using strut mounts, this is a positive in many ways. Double wishbone suspension has distinct advantages including better wheel alignment retention and more consistent handling. Plus, because the shocks and springs are separate, it makes servicing certain components easier without dealing with the complexities of integrated struts and mounts. For regular servicing, owners should still keep an eye on suspension health and replace worn parts as soon as signs of wear appear.

Now, for general knowledge, understanding the purpose of strut mounts is handy if you own or work on other vehicles that do use MacPherson strut suspension. Strut mounts basically do three important jobs:

• They attach the strut assembly securely to the vehicle body or chassis.
• They provide a pivot point, allowing the strut to turn with the steering system.
• They help isolate road noise and vibrations from the cabin by cushioning the connection.

In cars that use struts, worn or damaged strut mounts can cause all sorts of problems. Noise is a common complaint, usually a clunking or knocking sound when driving over bumps or turning. Steering can also feel loose or less responsive if the mounts are compromised. Over time, worn strut mounts can lead to uneven tyre wear or even impact suspension geometry, making the vehicle harder to control.

It's a good maintenance habit to have strut mounts inspected whenever the struts or shocks are replaced. If the mounts show cracks, wear in the rubber components, or damage to the bearing, replacement is a must. Many mechanics recommend changing strut mounts as a pair with the struts to save on labour costs and avoid future headaches.

For owners of vehicles with strut mounts, some handy tips include:

• Check for unusual noises from the front of the vehicle during test drives over uneven surfaces.
• Look out for more steering effort or play, which could hint at worn mounts or bearings.
• During a suspension service, inspect the strut mounts visually for any signs of wear or oil leaks around them (which might be from the strut itself).
• Replace the mounts in pairs to keep handling characteristics balanced.

So, while the 2018 Holden Colorado does not have strut mounts due to its double wishbone suspension system, knowing what strut mounts do is still good for Aussie drivers who might work on different vehicles or want to better understand suspension parts in general. For the Colorado, owners should focus on keeping its independent suspension components in top shape including shocks, springs, and control arm bushings. Proper maintenance helps keep this ute performing at its best on all sorts of roads and loads.