The correct way to replace a strut mount
Strut mount replacement should be a routine job for a professional technician; however, it is one that carries safety and performance implications if it is not handled correctly – this is where you play a pivotal role, according to Comline.
Comline believes you are best placed to be the conduit between supplier and workshop to reinforce best practice at the point of sale and offer technical support if it is required.
Why the top strut mount matters
A top strut mount connects the suspension strut to the vehicle’s body, shielding the cabin from road noise and vibrations while acting as the steering system’s pivot point. It uses rubber to absorb shocks and an integrated bearing (if required) to facilitate smooth rotation.
If fitted incorrectly, it can lead to excessive noise, poor handling, an uncomfortable ride – but, more importantly, it can lead to worn or damaged parts that can have a knock-on effect on other parts of the steering and suspension system.
Four installation principles to share with technicians
Use a spring compressor: Compress the coil spring during assembly and reassembly. A suspension spring holds a significant amount of stored energy, so if the top mount is removed without correctly compressing the spring, it can release with explosive force. Highlighting this advice is important to ensure a professional fit, says Comline. The company encourages the upsell of spring compressors when selling strut mounts.
Torque to manufacturer specifications: Use a calibrated torque wrench and follow OEM values to avoid premature wear, mount failure, noise complaints and returns. Incorrect torque – irrespective of over or under – can compromise both bearing integrity and suspension geometry, notes Comline. By providing access to torque data via technical support channels, catalogues or workshop portals, Comline is confident this will strengthen your value proposition.
Match the mount to the strut type: Not all mounts are the same… Bearing-type mounts allow rotation with steering input, while non-bearing mounts are a fixed design. Supplying the incorrect type can lead to stiffness, noise or even early failure, so confirming the right one is important. Over the phone or at the counter, you can confirm the VIN or specific details of the vehicle. Precise identification should reduce comebacks and show excellent customer service.
Replace mounts in pairs: Replacing both sides balances the suspension’s response, should improve ride quality, reduce strain on new components and extend the overall service life of the mounts. Comline says encouraging the replacement, using a simple prompt at the point of sale, demonstrates professional courtesy and increases basket value.
What’s inside Comline’s portfolio?
Although a small part, strut mounts make a big impact. To maximise this opportunity, Comline urges you to stock a range built around vehicle demand. Its top strut mounts are manufactured in Europe using what Comline describes as premium raw materials. This makes them durable, resilient against environmental conditions and helps prevent corrosion.
Comline’s offering also comprises rubber-to-metal bonding, which absorbs vibration and reduces noise. It says, where required, integrated bearings are manufactured to OE standards.
Comline has 212 top strut references in its all-makes range, with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty accompanying every one.
In its latest range update, Comline included a new rack end and stabiliser link for the Honda Civic (2016-onwards), tie rod end for the Toyota Hilux (2015-onwards) and suspension arm for several vehicles (Volvo XC90, X40 and V90, Hyundai Accent (2017-onwards), BMW 3 Series and X5).
