Parts for your 2020 Volkswagen Amarok-Struts

Understanding Struts on the 2020 Volkswagen Amarok

The 2020 Volkswagen Amarok is widely recognised for its rugged build and dependable off-road capabilities, making it a popular choice among ute enthusiasts in Australia and beyond. When it comes to the suspension system on the Amarok, it is important to clarify whether struts are part of the setup or not, as this impacts maintenance and servicing considerations.

After referencing technical manuals and suspension diagrams for the 2020 Amarok, it is clear that the vehicle does not use struts as part of its suspension system. Instead, the front suspension utilises a double wishbone setup with coil springs and shock absorbers, while the rear features a leaf spring system or optionally coil springs depending on the specific variant and trim level.

So, why are struts not used on the 2020 Volkswagen Amarok? Struts are a type of suspension component that combines a shock absorber and a structural support for the vehicle's suspension into one unit. They are common on many passenger cars due to their compact design and ability to handle both damping and structural loads. However, for a robust, utility-focused vehicle like the Amarok, the suspension needs to be built for durability and load-carrying capacity.

The double wishbone setup on the Amarok's front suspension offers greater control over wheel motion and improved handling characteristics, which is important when driving on rough terrain or towing heavy loads. Meanwhile, the leaf springs or coil springs at the rear are better suited to manage heavy payloads, which is a priority for a ute designed for work and off-road use.

Because struts serve a dual purpose and are often found on smaller vehicles looking to save space and reduce cost, they are less common on mid-size utes like the Amarok. Instead, having separate shock absorbers and structured suspension arms results in a suspension system tailored for robustness and serviceability, ideal for the kind of tough conditions the Amarok is expected to handle.

That said, understanding the role of struts might be valuable for readers familiar with other vehicles. Should the Amarok or a similar vehicle be equipped with struts, knowing their purpose and maintenance is critical.

Struts combine two key functions in one component. First, they act as shock absorbers, controlling spring and suspension movement to ensure the vehicle rides smoothly over bumps and maintains tire contact with the road. Second, they provide structural support, helping to maintain the alignment and geometry of the suspension system. This means they bear some of the forces that would normally be handled by other suspension arms or components.

Because struts carry both damping and structural loads, they tend to face significant stress and wear over time, especially in vehicles exposed to harsh road conditions, heavy loads, or off-road driving. For a 2020 Volkswagen Amarok, while it doesn't rely on struts, the replacement or maintenance of shock absorbers and other suspension components should be part of regular servicing to keep its handling sharp and ride quality up to scratch.

For vehicles that do use struts, signs of worn or failing struts include excessive bouncing, poor handling, uneven tyre wear, and longer stopping distances. Regular inspection during servicing will often involve checking for oil leaks on the struts, listening for unusual noises, and assessing ride comfort and vehicle alignment. Following manufacturer guidelines, struts are usually checked around 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres but should be inspected sooner if poor ride quality becomes noticeable.

When it is time to replace struts, it is often best to replace them in pairs (both fronts or both rears) to maintain balanced handling. Worn struts can seriously affect the vehicle's safety, comfort, and performance, so prompt replacement is advised when signs of wear appear. Professional servicing centres usually recommend a thorough suspension check during regular service intervals for peace of mind.

Back to the 2020 Volkswagen Amarok, since it does not use struts, the focus should be on maintaining its shock absorbers, coil springs, double wishbone arms, and leaf springs if fitted. These components should be inspected for wear, damage, or corrosion. Regular servicing helps prevent premature suspension failure and keeps the Amarok performing well whether on tarmac, dirt roads, or hauling gear around the farm or worksite.

In lifestyle terms, utes like the Amarok carry heavy gear, traverse rough terrain, and may be subjected to heavy towing loads. That makes suspension maintenance critical, including keeping an eye on components like shock absorbers to ensure they're dampening appropriately and not letting the vehicle become unstable or uncomfortable to drive.

Overall, while struts are a clever and space-saving solution in many cars, the 2020 Volkswagen Amarok opts for a more rugged suspension approach better suited to its off-road strengths and utility requirements. If owning or working on an Amarok, sticking to the correct servicing advice for shock absorbers and suspension arms ensures it will keep delivering the ride quality and durability that owners expect.