Eagle Talon Suspension Strut Mount Kit Guide (1990-1998)
Eliminate clunking noises and restore your Talon's sharp handling by choosing the right strut mounts.
- Clunking over bumps is the most common sign of a failed strut mount on a Talon.
- Always replace strut mounts in pairs to ensure safe and predictable handling.
- For this vehicle, quality aftermarket brands like KYB are a reliable choice as OEM parts are scarce.
- Due to the high labor cost, replace the struts and bellows at the same time as the mounts.
Is Your Talon's Front End Making Noise?
If you're hearing a clunking, popping, or knocking sound from the front of your 1990-1998 Eagle Talon, especially when going over bumps or turning the steering wheel at low speeds, there's a good chance your strut mounts have failed. These parts are made of rubber and metal, and after decades of use, the rubber breaks down, leading to metal-on-metal contact that creates noise and vibration.
Common Symptoms of Bad Strut Mounts:
- Clunking or Popping Noises: A loud clunk or pop when driving over bumps, potholes, or turning the wheels.
- Excessive Vibrations: You may feel vibrations through the steering wheel or floorboards as the worn rubber can no longer dampen them.
- Poor Steering Response: The steering may feel stiff, heavy, or fail to return to the center position smoothly after a turn.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A collapsed mount can throw off your Talon's wheel alignment, causing tires to wear out prematurely.
- Visible Damage: You might see the center bolt of the mount sitting higher than normal or notice cracks in the rubber if you look under the hood at the strut towers.
No Specific Recalls or TSBs
There are no specific NHTSA recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for suspension strut mounts on the 1990-1998 Eagle Talon. The issues described are common wear-and-tear items for vehicles of this age, well-documented by owners in the DSM (Diamond-Star Motors) community.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount
For a vehicle as old as the first-generation Talon, finding new OEM parts is difficult and often unnecessary. The aftermarket offers several good options that meet or exceed original quality. Since the labor to replace a strut mount is significant, it's wise to invest in a quality part to avoid doing the job twice.
Brand Tiers for Eagle Talon Owners:
- Quality Aftermarket (Recommended): Brands like KYB are highly regarded in the DSM community and are often considered the standard for OEM-quality replacements. They are engineered to restore original handling and are a perfect match if you are also replacing your struts with KYB units.
- Standard Aftermarket: Mevotech is another solid choice, known for producing durable parts that sometimes feature design improvements over the original. They offer a good balance of quality and value.
- Economy: Brands like DEA Strut offer a budget-friendly price point. While functional, they may not offer the same longevity or refinement as the higher-tier brands. They are a viable option if budget is the primary concern.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs and Consider the Struts
It is essential to replace strut mounts in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even handling and suspension performance. Furthermore, since the entire strut assembly must be removed to replace the mount, this is the perfect time to replace your old struts and bellows (dust boots). The labor cost is the same, and installing all new components at once will restore your Talon's ride and handling.
Cost of Replacing Eagle Talon Strut Mounts
The cost is broken down into parts and labor. While the mounts themselves are inexpensive, the labor to install them is where most of the cost comes from.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Strut Mount Kit (Pair) | $30 - $50 |
| Shop Labor (Mounts Only) | $200 - $400 |
| Shop Labor (Struts & Mounts Together) | $300 - $500 |
| Wheel Alignment (Required after replacement) | $100 - $150 |
| Total Professional Job (Mounts, Struts, Alignment) | $500 - $900+ |
Cost estimates are for a pair and can vary based on location and shop rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just one strut mount?
You should not. Suspension components should always be replaced in pairs to maintain balanced handling and prevent premature wear on other parts. If one mount has failed from age, the other is likely near the end of its life too.
Is a wheel alignment necessary after replacing strut mounts?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing the strut mounts will affect your vehicle's suspension geometry. A four-wheel alignment is required to ensure proper handling, prevent uneven tire wear, and make sure the vehicle drives straight.
Can I install strut mounts myself?
This is an advanced DIY job. It requires removing the entire strut assembly and using a spring compressor tool to safely remove the coil spring. Spring compressors can be extremely dangerous if used improperly. If you are not an experienced mechanic with the right tools, professional installation is strongly recommended.
What is the difference between a 1G FWD and AWD strut mount?
For the 1990-1994 (1G) models, the front strut mounts are generally the same for both FWD and AWD. However, rear suspension components can differ. Always verify the part number fits your exact year and drivetrain (FWD or AWD) before ordering to avoid mistakes. The 1995-1998 (2G) models have different suspension setups.
Technical Specifications
Fits 1990-1998 Eagle Talon models. Kit typically includes the mount with an integrated bearing and new mounting nuts. Verify fitment for your specific year (1G: 90-94, 2G: 95-98) and drivetrain (FWD/AWD) as rear mounts can differ.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Eagle Talon:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Talon's Front End Making Noise?
- Common Symptoms of Bad Strut Mounts:
- No Specific Recalls or TSBs
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount
- Brand Tiers for Eagle Talon Owners:
- Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs and Consider the Struts
- Cost of Replacing Eagle Talon Strut Mounts
- Frequently Asked Questions
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