A Guide to Replacing Suspension Strut Bellows on Your 2006-2014 Mazda 5
Protect your Mazda 5's ride quality by understanding when and how to replace your suspension strut bellows.
- A torn strut bellow on your Mazda 5 will lead to premature failure of the entire strut; it's a critical protective part.
- Due to the high labor cost, it is strongly recommended to replace the entire strut assembly and strut mount along with the bellow.
- Aftermarket brands like KYB are a popular and reliable choice for the Mazda 5, which has a history of early suspension wear.
- This is an advanced repair that requires a spring compressor and should be performed by a professional unless you have significant experience.
Is Your Mazda 5's Ride Getting Noisy or Bumpy?
If you own a 2006-2014 Mazda 5, you might notice that the suspension doesn't feel as smooth as it used to. These vehicles are sometimes known for having suspension parts, like struts, that wear out sooner than expected. One of the first lines of defense for your struts is the bellow, or boot. When this part fails, it can lead to bigger and more expensive problems.
Symptoms of a Failing Strut Bellow
A strut bellow is a simple part, and its failure is usually visual. You won't get a check engine light, but you should inspect them if you notice other suspension issues.
- Visible Cracks or Tears: The most obvious sign is seeing that the flexible boot is ripped, cracked, or missing pieces. This leaves the shiny strut rod exposed to the elements.
- Grease or Fluid Leaks: While the bellow itself doesn't hold fluid, a torn boot can allow dirt to damage the strut's seal, causing hydraulic fluid to leak out.
- Clunking or Knocking Noises: A torn boot will eventually cause the strut to fail. A bad strut often makes a clunking or knocking sound when you drive over bumps.
- Bouncy Ride: If the strut fails because its seal was damaged, your Mazda 5 will bounce more than usual after hitting bumps in the road.
Don't Ignore a Torn Bellow
A torn strut bellow won't cause an immediate safety issue. However, it guarantees that the strut it is supposed to protect will fail prematurely. The cost of replacing a bellow is minimal compared to replacing a strut that has been damaged by dirt and water.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bellows for Your Mazda 5
When replacing suspension parts on your Mazda 5, aftermarket options are often a good choice, as some owners report that factory struts can wear out early. Since the labor to replace a bellow is the same as replacing the entire strut, it is highly recommended to replace the struts, mounts, and bellows at the same time.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (KYB): KYB is a very well-respected brand that is often used as an original equipment manufacturer for many car brands. Many Mazda 5 owners choose KYB for their replacement struts and bellows because they offer quality and durability that is considered equal to or better than the original parts. They are a trusted choice for restoring your vehicle's original ride and handling.
- Standard Aftermarket (Skyward): Skyward provides a cost-effective solution for your repair needs. These parts are designed to meet original specifications and offer a reliable replacement for a damaged or worn-out bellow at a budget-friendly price.
Cost to Replace Mazda 5 Strut Bellows
The bellow itself is not expensive. However, the total cost of the job is mostly labor, as the entire strut assembly must be removed and taken apart to install the new bellow. Because of this, most shops and experienced DIYers replace the entire strut assembly at the same time.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Strut Bellows Kit (Part Only) | $19.97 - $43.66 |
| Shop Labor (per side) | $158 - $232 |
| Total Job (Bellows, Struts, Mounts & Labor, per side) | $376 - $598 |
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
Suspension components should always be replaced in pairs (both front struts or both rear shocks at the same time). This ensures that your Mazda 5's handling remains even and predictable. Replacing only one side can cause instability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just replace the bellow and not the whole strut?
Yes, you can, but it's usually not recommended. The labor involved is significant and requires special tools like a spring compressor. Since you have to take the entire strut assembly apart anyway, it makes financial sense to also replace the strut and strut mount, which are likely worn if the original bellow has failed.
Are there any recalls for the Mazda 5 suspension?
No, there are no specific recalls for the suspension struts or bellows on the 2006-2014 Mazda 5. There was a recall for lift gate supports on some model years and for front suspension ball joints on other Mazda SUVs, but not the Mazda 5. However, Mazda has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for other models addressing suspension noises, which sometimes involve replacing bump stops or strut bearings.
Can I drive my Mazda 5 with a torn strut bellow?
Yes, you can continue to drive the vehicle. A torn bellow itself does not make the car unsafe immediately. However, it allows dirt and moisture to wear out the strut, which will eventually lead to poor handling, a bouncy ride, and potentially longer stopping distances, which are safety concerns.
Is replacing a strut bellow a good DIY project?
This is an advanced DIY project. The process involves removing the strut assembly from the vehicle and then using a spring compressor to safely remove the coil spring. Spring compressors can be very dangerous if not used correctly. If you do not have experience with suspension work, it is best to leave this job to a professional mechanic.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: KF49-28-0A5
The suspension strut bellow is a flexible, accordion-style boot made of rubber or polyurethane. It is designed to fit over the strut's piston rod. Aftermarket kits, such as the KYB SB101 (Front) and SB125 (Rear), typically include both the bellow and a foam bump stop.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Mazda 5:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Mazda 5's Ride Getting Noisy or Bumpy?
- Symptoms of a Failing Strut Bellow
- Don't Ignore a Torn Bellow
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bellows for Your Mazda 5
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Cost to Replace Mazda 5 Strut Bellows
- Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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