Parts for your 2018 Holden Commodore-Strut mounts

Understanding Strut Mounts on the 2018 Holden Commodore

The 2018 Holden Commodore is a solid piece of Aussie engineering that combines performance, comfort, and style. When it comes to suspension components, one part that often gets overlooked but plays a crucial role in the ride quality and handling are the strut mounts. So, are strut mounts actually used on the 2018 Holden Commodore? The short answer is yes, but it depends on the suspension setup of the specific model variant.

The 2018 Holden Commodore, particularly the VF2 series, uses a front suspension setup featuring MacPherson struts. MacPherson struts combine a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit and rely on strut mounts to secure the strut assembly to the vehicle's body. This means the strut mount is very much part of the front suspension system, providing both a mounting point and helping to isolate road noise and vibrations.

At the rear, the Commodore often utilises a multi-link or independent rear suspension depending on the variant. Rear strut mounts are generally less common with multi-link setups, which use separate shock absorbers and springs rather than strut assemblies. So while the front definitely has strut mounts, the rear probably does not.

Understanding the role of strut mounts on the Holden Commodore's front suspension is important if you are looking after your vehicle's ride comfort and handling qualities. Strut mounts essentially act as the interface between the suspension and the car's body, allowing the strut to pivot when steering and cushioning impacts from the road. They often have a rubber or elastomer component that absorbs shocks and helps keep vibrations from entering the cabin.

One of the unsung heroes of suspension maintenance, strut mounts are sometimes neglected because they don't wear out as fast as shocks or springs, but over time they can degrade. If the strut mounts wear out or become damaged, it can cause clunking noises when driving over bumps, increased vibration through the steering wheel, and even uneven tyre wear due to compromised suspension geometry.

Replacing or servicing strut mounts on a 2018 Holden Commodore is not overly complex but does require removing the strut assembly from the vehicle. Professional garages or experienced DIYers will typically compress the coil spring, remove the retaining nut at the top of the strut, and swap out the strut mount. Because the mount also acts as a pivot bearing, new mounts often come with integrated bearings to ensure smooth steering operation.

Not servicing your strut mounts can lead to a less comfortable ride and may impact handling, especially when cornering or driving on rough roads. Regular inspections as part of suspension servicing are recommended to catch early signs of wear. Mechanics will look for deterioration in the rubber, corrosion on the mounting plate, or noise indications during test drives.

Here are some practical tips on strut mount care for the Holden Commodore:

• Listen for unusual noises such as knocking or creaking sounds especially when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps.
• Check for excessive vibration or harshness in the steering - this could indicate failed strut mounts.
• During suspension service, ask your mechanic to inspect the strut mounts even if your shocks and springs seem fine.
• Replacement intervals vary but generally consider reviewing them every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres or if there's noticeable deterioration.

The cost of replacing strut mounts is often reasonable when combined with a full strut or shock absorber replacement job. It is never a bad idea to replace them alongside other suspension components to save on labour costs and restore ride quality completely. Quality aftermarket or OEM parts should be chosen to ensure longevity and performance.

Overall, the strut mounts on the 2018 Holden Commodore perform the important job of connecting the suspension to the car while absorbing shocks and aiding in steering smoothness. For owners wanting to keep their Commodore riding like new, paying attention to strut mount condition during maintenance checks is a smart move. This small, often overlooked component plays a big role in maintaining the trademark balance of comfort and handling that Commodore fans appreciate.