A Guide to Suspension Shock and Strut Mounts for the 2006-2017 Mazda 5
Hearing clunks or rattles from your suspension? Your shock or strut mounts might be the cause, but another common part could be the real problem.
- A clunking noise from the front is more likely to be worn sway bar bushings than a bad strut mount; inspect the bushings first.
- The original aluminum rear shock mounts are a known weak point that can break; replace them with upgraded steel aftermarket versions from brands like Dorman.
- KYB is a highly recommended aftermarket brand for OEM-quality struts and mounts, while many owners consider original Mazda parts to be failure-prone.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing front strut mounts to prevent uneven tire wear and handling issues.
Is It a Bad Mount or Something Else?
A loud clunking, knocking, or rattling noise when driving over bumps is the most common sign of a suspension problem on the 2006-2017 Mazda 5. While this can certainly be a failed strut or shock mount, it's very often caused by something else: worn-out sway bar bushings. Before you decide to replace your mounts, it is critical to inspect the front and rear sway bar bushings, as they are a frequent failure point on this vehicle and a much cheaper repair.
Common Failure Symptoms
If you've ruled out the sway bar bushings, here are the top signs that your mounts have failed:
- Loud Rattling from the Rear: The original rear shock mounts on the Mazda 5 are made of aluminum and are known to corrode and break completely. This leaves the shock absorber loose at the top, causing a loud metal-on-metal rattling sound from the back of the vehicle.
- Popping or Binding When Steering: If you hear a popping noise or feel the steering wheel bind when turning, it often points to a worn-out bearing in the front strut mount.
- Poor Steering Response: A worn front mount can cause vague steering, wandering, or a poor "steering memory," where the wheel doesn't want to return to the center on its own after a turn.
- Visible Damage: You may see cracked or degraded rubber on the front mounts. For the rear, you might see that the mount has physically broken apart where it bolts to the car.
A Known Weak Point: Rear Shock Mounts
The original equipment (OEM) rear shock mounts on all 2006-2017 Mazda 5s are made of cast aluminum. They are well-known for corroding and breaking, especially in areas where road salt is used. When this happens, the shock is no longer connected to the vehicle body, leading to dangerous handling and noise. Aftermarket brands like Dorman offer upgraded replacements made of steel to solve this problem permanently.
🎬 See this fast walkthrough for replacing rear shocks and mounts.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
The general opinion among Mazda 5 owners is that original Mazda suspension parts are not very durable. Aftermarket parts often provide better quality and value. Here’s a breakdown of available brands.
Brand Quality Tiers
- KYB (Premium Replacement): KYB is a highly respected manufacturer that often supplies original parts to automakers. Their mounts are considered an OEM-quality or better replacement and are a trusted choice for restoring original ride and performance.
- Dorman (Standard Replacement / Problem-Solver): Dorman offers reliable, standard-quality replacements. Their key advantage for the Mazda 5 is the availability of an upgraded steel rear shock mount, which fixes the design flaw of the original aluminum part.
- Skyward (Economy): Skyward provides a budget-friendly option for drivers who need to get their vehicle repaired at the lowest possible cost.
Pro Tip: When replacing front struts, it is always recommended to replace the strut mounts at the same time. The old mounts are likely worn and reusing them can lead to noise and require doing the labor all over again 🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide on how to change front struts. in the near future.
Cost to Replace a Suspension Mount on a Mazda 5
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount (Single) | $17.42 - $57.35 |
| New OEM Mount (Single) | $70 - $150 |
| Shop Labor (Per Pair, Front) | $200 - $400 |
| Shop Labor (Per Pair, Rear) | $100 - $200 |
| Wheel Alignment (Front Only) | $80 - $120 |
Costs are estimates and can vary by location and repair shop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the mounts?
Yes, a wheel alignment is required if you replace the front strut mounts. It is not necessary if you are only replacing the rear shock mounts.
Should I replace the struts or shocks at the same time as the mounts?
It is highly recommended. The labor involved in replacing the mounts is nearly the same as replacing the struts/shocks. If your vehicle has over 80,000 miles, the struts and shocks are likely worn and should be replaced to save on future labor costs.
Should I replace mounts in pairs?
Yes. Suspension components should always be replaced in pairs (both front mounts or both rear mounts) to ensure even handling and stability. Replacing only one side can lead to unpredictable vehicle behavior.
I hear a clunking noise. Are you sure it's not the mount?
It could be, but on the Mazda 5, the most common cause of a front-end clunk is worn sway bar bushings. These are small rubber parts that are much cheaper than strut mounts. Many owners have replaced their entire strut assemblies only to find the noise remained until they replaced the sway bar bushings. Always inspect these first.
🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix that common Mazda clunk.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: BBM2-34-380 C236-28-380A CC29-34-380B
The Mazda 5 uses a strut-type front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension with separate shock absorbers and coil springs. The front mount includes an integrated bearing for steering pivot. The rear mount is a non-bearing top hat design. Part numbers can vary by specific model year and trim, so verifying with a VIN is recommended.
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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.
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