Parts for your 2018 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Strut mounts

2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris strut mounts — what they do and when to swap them

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant on the 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris. The front suspension on this model is a MacPherson strut layout, which uses a top mount with an integrated bearing to locate the strut and allow the strut to turn with the steering. This is documented in Toyota’s service literature for the XP130/XP150 series (Front Suspension – MacPherson strut), Toyota Australia’s 2018 Yaris specifications sheets (Front: MacPherson strut, Rear: torsion beam), and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue listing the front “shock absorber support sub-assembly” for Vitz/Yaris variants. Aftermarket catalogues from KYB and Monroe also list front strut-mount kits for the 2018 Yaris/Vitz, confirming fitment.

On the Vitz/Yaris, the front strut mounts play two key roles. First, they isolate road noise and vibration with a rubber insulator so the cabin stays quiet and comfy. Second, the built-in bearing lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer, keeping steering feel light and precise. The rear of this car uses a torsion beam with separate dampers, so there are no rear strut mounts to worry about.

While Toyota doesn’t specify a fixed replacement interval, strut mounts are wear items. On Aussie and Kiwi roads they can last well past 100,000 km, but age, heat, and potholes can speed things up. During servicing, it’s smart to inspect the mounts whenever front struts, springs, or top bearings are being checked or replaced. If the mount rubber is cracked, the bearing feels notchy, or there’s play, it’s time for new ones. Replacing in axle pairs keeps steering and ride balanced. Always follow the correct torque specs, use new prevailing nuts where specified, and book a wheel alignment after any strut or mount work to keep tyre wear even and steering straight.

• Common signs a Vitz/Yaris strut mount is tired: clunks over bumps, creaks at low speed, vague steering or a “springy” return to centre, notchy or heavy steering, and feathering or uneven front tyre wear.
• Good practice: renew the bearing and dust boots with the mount, check the strut shaft and spring seats, and recheck fastener torque after a short bedding-in period.

Technical references: Toyota Yaris/Vitz XP130/XP150 Front Suspension section (Repair Manual/NCF), Toyota Australia 2018 Yaris Specifications, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (front shock absorber support sub-assembly), KYB and Monroe strut-mount catalogues for 2018 Yaris/Vitz.

Does the 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have front and rear strut mounts?

It has front strut mounts because the car uses MacPherson struts up front. The rear is a torsion beam with separate dampers, so there are no rear strut mounts on this model year.

How long do strut mounts last on a 2018 Vitz/Yaris?

Many go 100,000–200,000 km depending on road conditions and load. If there are clunks over bumps, notchy steering, or uneven front tyre wear, have them checked sooner rather than later.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?

Yes. Any work involving the front struts can shift camber and toe slightly. A post-repair alignment helps protect tyres and restores confident steering feel.