Parts for your 2020 Isuzu D-max-Struts

2020 Isuzu D‑MAX and “struts”: what it actually runs

Short answer: the 2020 Isuzu D‑MAX doesn’t use MacPherson struts. Up front it runs an independent double‑wishbone arrangement with coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a stabiliser bar, out back it’s heavy‑duty leaf springs with separate shocks. That layout is confirmed by technical references including the Isuzu UTE Australia model specifications and brochure for the 2020 D‑MAX, the factory workshop/service manual suspension section for the 2019‑on (RG) platform, and industry data sheets used by workshops. So while people sometimes call the front coilover shock a “strut”, it isn’t a structural MacPherson strut.

Why no struts? Utes like the D‑MAX are built to carry and tow, handle corrugations and off‑road work, and keep alignment stable under load. A double‑wishbone front end with a separate shock/coil assembly gives stronger control of camber through suspension travel, spreads loads through upper and lower control arms, and avoids the body‑mounted strut tower loads common in passenger cars. The rear leaf‑spring pack is chosen for payload and durability, again with separate dampers.

• Better camber control and front‑end geometry for towing and off‑road work
• Durability under higher axle loads and rough‑road punishment
• Serviceability: shocks, bushes and ball joints can be replaced individually
• Packaging for 4x4 hardware and ground clearance without tall strut towers

What should owners service instead of “struts”? For the D‑MAX, look at the front shocks (dampers), upper/lower control arm bushes and ball joints, sway bar links and bushes, plus the rear leaf‑spring bushes, shackles and U‑bolts. If it’s getting a bit floaty, crashing over bumps, or showing cupped tyre wear, fresh dampers can make a big difference. Many owners replace front and rear shocks in pairs anywhere from 80,000–150,000 km depending on loads and road conditions. Any suspension work should finish with a wheel alignment to keep tyre wear in check.

Technical sources referenced: Isuzu UTE Australia 2020 D‑MAX specification/brochure, Isuzu D‑MAX (RG, 2019‑on) workshop/service manual – Suspension, professional workshop data (double‑wishbone front, leaf‑spring rear). These specify shocks and coils rather than MacPherson struts.

Popular questions about 2020 Isuzu D‑MAX “struts”

Does the 2020 Isuzu D‑MAX have struts?
No. It has independent double‑wishbone front suspension with coil springs and gas shock absorbers, plus leaf springs at the rear. The front dampers may be sold as “strut assemblies” by some retailers, but they’re not MacPherson struts and don’t locate the wheel like a true strut does.

What suspension parts should be replaced instead of struts?
Front and rear shock absorbers, worn control arm bushes and ball joints, sway bar bushes/links, and rear leaf‑spring bushes are the usual suspects. If lifting or adding accessories, consider matched shocks and coils up front and appropriate rear spring rates. Always get a wheel alignment after suspension work.

Can aftermarket “struts” or lift kits be fitted to a 2020 D‑MAX?
Aftermarket front coilover shock assemblies are common and often called “struts” in catalogues, but they remain shocks with coils in a double‑wishbone system. Keep lifts sensible (commonly up to 50 mm without certification), watch CV angles on 4x4s, and ensure parts meet local compliance. An alignment is a must.