Parts for your 2020 Honda Odyssey-Strut mounts

2020 Honda Odyssey strut-mounts

Strut-mounts are absolutely relevant to the 2020 Honda Odyssey. Technical sources including the Honda Service Manual for the 2018–2020 Odyssey (Front Suspension section) and the official Honda electronic parts catalogue list a MacPherson strut front suspension with an upper strut mount and integrated bearing. The rear uses a separate shock and spring arrangement, so rear “strut-mounts” aren’t applicable there.

Up front, the strut-mounts do three big jobs. First, they locate the top of the strut in the body, keeping the alignment geometry steady under braking, cornering and rough roads. Second, they isolate vibration and harshness, using a rubber insulator to keep cabin noise down and ride comfort up. Third, the mount’s bearing lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer, so the steering feels light and consistent. When they’re tired, you’ll often hear clunks over bumps, creaks as you turn the wheel, or feel a sticky “memory steer” that doesn’t self-centre cleanly. You might also notice vague steering and uneven front tyre wear.

There’s no fixed replacement interval in the Honda literature, they’re a wear item best inspected during routine servicing. A sensible approach in Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to assess the strut-mounts any time the front shocks/struts are replaced, or from around 120,000–160,000 km, earlier if the vehicle tows, hits corrugations, or spends time on rough city kerbs. Look for torn rubber, excessive play, rust staining around the mount, or notchiness when turning the strut by hand with the spring unloaded.

If replacement’s on the cards, it’s wise to fit quality mounts (with bearings) as a pair on the front. Always use a proper spring compressor, replace any single‑use self‑locking nuts specified by Honda, and torque everything to the Service Manual specs. A front wheel alignment should follow any strut removal so camber and toe are bang on. Because the rear Odyssey suspension isn’t a strut design, it uses shock absorber bushings rather than strut-mounts—so rear “mount” noise is more likely a worn shock bush or link rather than a strut-mount issue. Treat the front strut-mounts well and the Odyssey will steer sweetly, ride quietly, and keep those tyres wearing evenly.

• Technical references: Honda Service Manual (Front Suspension: MacPherson Strut, Strut Mount/Bearing), Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (Front Shock Absorber Mounting Components).

Popular questions about 2020 Honda Odyssey strut-mounts

Do the rear suspension components on a 2020 Odyssey use strut-mounts?
No. The rear of the 2020 Odyssey isn’t a MacPherson strut design. It uses a separate shock and spring, so there’s no rear strut-mount. Any rear knocks are more likely from shock bushings, sway bar links, or control arm bushes.

How long do front strut-mounts typically last on a 2020 Odyssey?
There’s wide variation, but many last well past 120,000 km. Rough roads, heavy loads, and frequent kerb strikes can shorten life. Inspect during major services and whenever front shocks/struts are replaced.

Can worn strut-mounts cause steering noise or pulling?
Yes. A failing mount or bearing can creak or groan as you turn the wheel, feel notchy, and contribute to vague steering or drift. Addressing worn mounts often restores lighter steering feel and more consistent tracking.