Parts for your 2018 Mazda 3-Strut mounts

2018 Mazda 3 strut-mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Strut‑mounts are absolutely used on the 2018 Mazda 3. Technical references including the Mazda3 BM/BN Workshop Manual (Front Suspension section) specify a MacPherson strut layout on the front axle, which by design uses an upper strut mount with an integrated bearing to connect the strut to the body and allow steering rotation. Aftermarket fitment catalogues from KYB (Suspension Mounting Kits for 2014–2018 Mazda3 BM/BN) and Monroe (Strut‑Mate mount listings) also confirm dedicated front strut‑mounts for this model. The rear of the 2018 Mazda 3 uses a separate shock and spring arrangement, so “strut‑mounts” as such apply to the front only.

On a 2018 Mazda 3, the front strut‑mounts sit at the top of each MacPherson strut under the bonnet. Their job is to isolate vibration, support the vehicle’s weight at that corner, and let the strut turn smoothly when the steering wheel is moved. The bearing portion helps the spring and strut rotate without binding, keeping steering feel light and precise.

Because they cop thousands of steering cycles and plenty of Aussie and Kiwi road punishment, strut‑mounts do wear. Typical signs include:

• Clunks or knocks over bumps, especially at low speeds
• Steering that feels notchy or slow to self‑centre
• Creaks when turning the wheel at parking speeds
• Uneven tyre wear or a tendency to wander

There’s no real “service” for a strut‑mount beyond inspection, they’re a replace‑when‑worn item. As a rule of thumb, many owners consider replacement somewhere around 100,000–150,000 km, or sooner if symptoms show. It’s smart to replace strut‑mounts in pairs and to do them any time new front struts or springs are fitted, as labour overlaps. Opt for OE or high‑quality aftermarket mounts that include the bearing, and refresh related consumables like bump stops and dust boots while you’re there.

When servicing the 2018‑mazda‑3 strut‑mounts, a proper wheel alignment afterwards is a must. Any fasteners disturbed during removal should be torqued to spec with the vehicle’s weight on the wheels to avoid bushing preload. If the car lives on corrugated or rough roads, adding strut‑mount inspection to each major service helps catch issues early, saving tyres and keeping the steering feel crisp.

Popular questions about 2018 Mazda 3 strut‑mounts

Do 2018 Mazda 3s have strut‑mounts front and rear?
Yes on the front, not in the same sense on the rear. The front suspension is MacPherson strut, which uses strut‑mounts with bearings. The rear uses separate shocks and springs, those have upper mounts but they’re not “strut‑mounts”.

How long do the front strut‑mounts typically last?
Many last 100,000–150,000 km, but life depends on road conditions and driving style. Listen for clunks or creaks and feel for heavy or notchy steering, those are early signs it’s time to replace them, ideally in pairs.

Is it safe to drive with worn strut‑mounts?
Short term, the car may still drive, but worn mounts can affect steering precision, braking stability, and tyre wear. If there are noises, steering bind, or alignment issues, plan a replacement sooner rather than later to keep things safe and tidy.