Parts for your 2020 Mazda Cx-5-Strut mounts

2020 Mazda CX-5 Strut Mounts

Yes, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 uses strut mounts in the front suspension. Technical sources confirming this include the Mazda CX-5 (KF series, 2017–2021) Workshop Manual—Suspension section (Front Shock Absorber and Coil Spring), the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (listing the front strut top mount/insulator and strut bearing), and independent service data used in Australia and New Zealand such as Autodata and ALLDATA. The rear of the CX-5 is a multi-link layout that uses separate shock mounts rather than strut-type top mounts, so the term “strut mount” applies primarily to the front axle on this model.

On this CX-5, the front MacPherson strut design relies on a strut mount to connect the strut assembly to the body. The mount’s rubber isolates road noise and vibration, while the integrated bearing allows the strut and spring to rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. Put simply, the mount carries the vehicle’s weight at that corner, keeps the steering feel tidy, and helps maintain alignment and tyre contact over bumps.

Strut mounts aren’t a scheduled replacement item, but they do wear. Heat, heavy loads, and rough roads can fatigue the rubber or pit the bearing. Technicians typically inspect them during routine servicing or when replacing front shocks or springs. Owners might notice symptoms that point to a tired mount:

• Clunks or thumps over speed humps and potholes
• Creaks or groans when turning the wheel at low speed
• Notchy steering feel or slow steering return to centre
• Uneven or feathered front tyre wear

For the 2020 CX-5, a sensible approach is to have the mounts visually checked every 20,000–40,000 kilometres, or anytime the front end is apart. Look for cracked rubber, separated bonding, rust staining around the top hat, or play at the bearing. If the front struts are being replaced, it’s good value to renew the strut mounts and bearings at the same time, along with the upper spring seat, dust boot and bump stop.

Replacement is a job for a competent workshop because the coil spring needs to be safely compressed, the new hardware torqued to Mazda specs, and a wheel alignment carried out afterwards. Best practice is to replace strut mounts in pairs across the front to keep handling balanced. Done right, fresh mounts will quieten the cabin, sharpen steering feel, and protect those tyres—nice and tidy for plenty more kays.

Popular questions about 2020 Mazda CX-5 strut mounts

Does the 2020 Mazda CX-5 have strut mounts?
Yes—at the front. The CX-5 (KF) uses a MacPherson strut front end with a top strut mount and bearing. The rear is multi-link with separate shock mounts, not a strut-type mount. This layout is documented in the Mazda Workshop Manual and the Mazda parts catalogue.

How long do strut mounts last on a CX-5?
It varies with roads and load, but many last 80,000–160,000 km. Noise over bumps, creaking on steering, or notchy steering feel are common signs it’s time to replace them, often alongside new front struts.

Can worn strut mounts cause tyre wear or steering issues?
They can. A binding mount bearing can affect steering return and precision, and excessive mount movement can mess with alignment under load, contributing to uneven tyre wear. Replacing the mounts and realigning the front end sorts it.