Parts for your 2018 Mazda Cx-5-Strut mounts

2018 Mazda CX-5 Strut Mounts

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant to the 2018 Mazda CX-5. Technical references back this up: the Mazda CX-5 (KF, 2017–2021) Workshop Manual specifies a MacPherson strut front suspension, which uses a top strut mount with an integrated bearing for steering. The Mazda Electronic Parts Catalog also lists a front shock/strut upper mount for this model, and major suspension catalogues from KYB and Monroe include front strut-mount kits specifically for the 2018 CX-5. The rear of the CX-5 is a multi-link setup with separate shocks and springs, so the term “strut mount” applies to the front axle.

On this CX-5, the strut mount secures the top of the front strut to the body and isolates vibration and noise from the cabin. The integrated bearing lets the strut turn smoothly with the steering, keeping the wheel alignment stable through its range of motion. When the mount or bearing starts to fail, owners often notice clunks over bumps, a creak or graunch at parking speeds, “memory steer” (the wheel not self-centring cleanly), vague turn-in, or accelerated outer-edge tyre wear.

There’s no fixed kilometre-based replacement interval for strut mounts, but it’s smart to have them inspected at major services and any time the front struts are replaced—typically somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km depending on roads and load. Best practice is to replace mounts and bearings in axle pairs when fitting new front struts. Use quality OE or reputable aftermarket parts, renew the top nut and any single-use hardware, and ensure the bearing faces the correct orientation. After the job, a wheel alignment is recommended.

DIYers should note the front spring is under significant preload—safe removal requires a proper spring compressor and correct torque procedures. Workshops will also check for cracked rubber, collapsed isolators, or binding bearings, and will re-seat the spring ends correctly in the perches to avoid future noise. Keeping tyres correctly inflated and rotating them on schedule helps reduce harsh impacts into the mounts. If the CX-5 starts knocking over sharp bumps or develops heavy steering feel at low speed, getting the front mounts checked under the bonnet sooner rather than later can save tyres and keep the car feeling tight and safe.

• Typical symptoms: clunks, creaks while turning, steering that won’t self-centre, or uneven tyre wear
• Service tip: replace front mounts with the struts, in pairs, and get an alignment

Popular questions

Does the 2018 Mazda CX-5 have strut mounts at the rear?
No. The rear uses a multi-link suspension with separate shock absorbers and coil springs, so there’s no rear MacPherson strut or strut-top bearing. The rear does have upper and lower shock mounts, but the “strut mount” term applies to the front on this model.

How long do front strut mounts last on a 2018 CX-5?
Many last 80,000–150,000 km or more, but rough roads, heavy loads, and big pothole hits can shorten their life. Inspect them during major services and whenever front struts are replaced, or sooner if there are clunks or steering noise.

Can worn strut mounts affect tyre wear and steering?
Yes. A binding bearing or collapsed rubber can cause memory steer, vague on-centre feel, and scuff the outer edges of the tyres. Replacing tired mounts and then checking alignment usually restores the CX-5’s tidy steering and protects the tyres.