Parts for your 2018 Honda Cr-v-Struts

2018 Honda CR‑V Struts: What They Do and When to Replace

Struts are fitted to the 2018 Honda CR‑V. Up front it runs a MacPherson strut suspension, while the rear uses a multi‑link setup with separate shocks and springs. This layout is confirmed by the 2017–2019 Honda CR‑V Service Manual, Honda’s official press materials for the fifth‑generation CR‑V, and genuine parts catalogues that list complete front strut assemblies and mounts for the 2018 model.

On this CR‑V, the front strut is both a shock absorber and a key structural part of the suspension. It locates the wheel, supports the spring, helps set wheel alignment, and keeps the ride settled over bumps. Good struts mean confident steering, consistent braking, and even tyre wear — handy whether it’s city commuting, school runs, or the odd gravel road escape.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but in typical Australian and New Zealand conditions many owners see the best results checking struts from around 60,000–80,000 km and planning replacement somewhere between 80,000–150,000 km depending on use. Rough roads, corrugations, load carrying, and frequent towing can bring that forward. During regular servicing, a technician should inspect for oil seepage, dented housings, torn dust boots, worn top mounts/bearings, and any clunks over bumps or floaty, bouncy ride.

• Telltale signs it’s time: longer stopping distances with nose‑dive, steering shimmy or tramlining, uneven or cupped tyre wear, and a thud or knock over potholes.
• Best practice: replace struts in axle pairs, fit new top mounts/bearings, bump stops and boots, and always carry out a wheel alignment afterwards.

Strut replacement involves high spring loads, so it’s not a DIY job unless there’s the right gear and know‑how. Many workshops use complete loaded strut assemblies to save time and ensure the spring and mount are fresh. Final torque should be set at normal ride height to keep bushings happy, and all self‑locking nuts and critical fasteners should be renewed to spec.

Technical references: Honda CR‑V (2017–2019) Service Manual, Honda Newsroom press kit for the fifth‑generation CR‑V describing MacPherson strut front and multi‑link rear suspension, Honda Genuine Parts catalogues listing front strut assemblies, mounts and bearings for 2018 CR‑V.

Popular questions about 2018 Honda CR‑V struts

Does the 2018 Honda CR‑V have struts or shocks?
The 2018 CR‑V uses MacPherson struts at the front and a multi‑link rear with separate shock absorbers and springs. So yes — struts up front, shocks at the rear.

How long do front struts last on a 2018 CR‑V in Australia or New Zealand?
Usage and roads vary, but many owners find inspection is wise from 60,000–80,000 km, with replacement commonly falling between 80,000–150,000 km. Corrugations, heavy loads and towing can shorten that window.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing front struts?
Absolutely. Struts affect camber and caster, so an alignment is essential after any strut or top‑mount work to protect tyres and restore steering feel.