Parts for your 2023 Ford Transit-Struts

2023 Ford Transit Struts — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Based on technical sources, the 2023 Ford Transit is fitted with MacPherson struts on the front axle. This is documented in Ford’s Workshop Manual for the Transit (front suspension section describing a MacPherson strut layout), the Ford Body and Equipment Mounting Manual (BEMM) suspension overview, and Ford Genuine Parts catalogues that list complete front strut assemblies and related top mounts for the 2023 model. Major aftermarket fitment catalogues (e.g., KYB and Monroe) also specify front strut units for the 2023 Transit range. The rear of most variants uses separate dampers with leaf or coil springs, but the front uses struts.

On a Transit, the front struts do double duty: they’re the main damper for ride control and a structural part of the suspension that locates the wheel and helps set alignment angles. They soak up bumps, keep tyres planted on rough Aussie and Kiwi roads, and act as a pivot for steering. Because they carry a lot of load, especially on work vans running tools, racking and cargo, keeping them in good nick makes a noticeable difference to braking, handling and tyre life.

There’s no strict replacement interval for struts, but a sensible approach is to have them inspected at every service or at least every 20,000 km. Signs it’s time for attention include a floaty or bouncy feel, nose-dive under brakes, clunks on bumps, uneven tyre wear, longer stopping distances and any oily film on the strut body. In real-world AU/NZ use, many vans see best results replacing fronts somewhere between 80,000–150,000 km, sooner if they’re constantly loaded or tackling rough worksites.

When it’s time, quality matters. Choose OE or OE-equivalent units matched to the exact Transit variant (RWD/AWD, GVM rating, ride height). Always replace struts in axle pairs, fit new top mounts/bearings, and consider new bump stops and dust boots. After fitting, a proper wheel alignment is essential to keep steering sharp and tyres wearing evenly.

Strut springs are under serious tension, so removal and refit require the right tools and safety gear. Many owners leave the job to a workshop with a spring compressor and the correct torque specs. If doing it yourself, follow the factory procedure and recheck fasteners after a short bedding-in period.

• Inspect for leaks, dented housings and perished mounts at each service.
• Book an alignment check after any front-end work or pothole strike.
• Listen for new knocks or creaks over speed humps and corrugations.

Popular questions about 2023 Ford Transit struts

Do 2023 Ford Transits use struts or shocks up front?
Yes, the front suspension uses MacPherson struts. They combine the spring and damper in a structural unit that also guides wheel movement and supports steering. The rear uses separate shock absorbers with leaf or coil springs, depending on the variant.

How often should Transit front struts be replaced?
There’s no fixed schedule, but many vans benefit from replacement between 80,000–150,000 km. Heavy loads, rough roads and lots of stop-start work shorten service life. If you notice bouncing, longer braking distances, uneven tyre wear or oil seepage, get them checked sooner.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing struts?
Absolutely. Struts influence camber and caster, and removal/refit can shift alignment. A post-replacement alignment helps protect tyre life and keeps steering feel consistent.