Parts for your 2024 Mazda 3-Strut mounts

2024 Mazda 3 strut mounts — what they do and when to replace

Strut mounts absolutely are used on the 2024 Mazda 3. The front suspension is a MacPherson strut design, which by definition uses a strut top mount and bearing. Technical references confirming this include the Mazda BP Mazda3 Workshop Manual (Front Suspension – MacPherson strut), Mazda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue listing the front strut top insulator and bearing for BP-series Mazda 3, and major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., KYB and Monroe) that supply front strut mount kits for the BP Mazda 3. The rear of this model uses a torsion beam with separate dampers, so there are no rear “strut” mounts.

On the 2024 Mazda 3, the front strut mount is the rubber-and-metal assembly that bolts the strut to the body tower and houses a bearing so the strut turns smoothly with the steering. Its jobs are to carry vehicle loads, isolate noise and vibration, and let the strut rotate freely. When it’s in good nick, steering feels light and precise, and there’s minimal harshness over bumps.

Over time, the rubber can crack or compress and the bearing can dry out or pit. Typical signs it’s time to replace include:

• Clunks, creaks or knocking from the top of the front suspension over bumps or when turning
• Heavier, notchy or self-centring steering issues at low speed
• Uneven or feathered front tyre wear and vague on-centre feel
• Visible perishing, split rubber, or excessive topside movement at the strut tower

Best practice is to replace strut mounts in axle pairs and consider doing them whenever front struts are replaced, commonly around 80,000–120,000 km depending on roads and load. Always align the vehicle after any strut or mount work, as camber/caster can shift when the assembly is disturbed. Fit quality OE or reputable aftermarket mounts with the correct integrated bearing, use new self-locking nuts where specified, and orient the mount correctly. A workshop should torque fixings to spec, support the knuckle properly, and avoid letting the driveshafts over-extend.

For ongoing care, have the mounts inspected during regular servicing—especially if there are new front-end noises after hitting a pothole. Keeping tyres at proper pressures and replacing worn front dampers early will also extend mount life. With fresh mounts, the Mazda 3’s steering and ride stay crisp, quiet and confidence-inspiring—just how it left the factory.

Popular questions about 2024 Mazda 3 strut mounts

Do all 2024 Mazda 3s have strut mounts?
Yes—at the front. The BP-series Mazda 3 uses MacPherson struts up front, which require strut top mounts with bearings. The rear is a torsion beam with separate dampers, so there are no rear strut mounts to service.

How long do Mazda 3 strut mounts typically last in Australia and New Zealand?
It varies with roads and driving style, but many owners see 80,000–120,000 km before symptoms show. Frequent corrugations, big potholes, or heavy urban kerb hits can shorten life. If you’re replacing front struts in that range, it’s smart value to do the mounts at the same time.

Can worn strut mounts cause tyre wear or steering issues?
They can. A binding bearing or collapsed rubber can lead to noisy, notchy steering and minor geometry changes that encourage feathering or uneven tyre wear. If you notice clunks, creaks, or vague steering, have the mounts checked alongside an alignment.