2012-2015 Scion iQ Front Suspension Strut Bellows: A Replacement Guide
Protect your iQ's struts from premature failure by understanding when and how to replace these critical dust boots.
- A torn strut bellow will lead to premature and expensive strut failure; it's a critical protective part.
- Always replace bellows as a kit (with jounce bumper) when you replace your struts. Do not replace them on their own.
- A known issue (TSB S-TT-0078-14) exists for clunking noises from the front strut area on the 2012-2014 iQ, making quality parts essential.
- KYB is a trusted OEM-quality aftermarket brand for this part; budget brands like Skyward lack a proven track record.
Symptoms of a Failing Strut Bellow
A strut bellow doesn't fail on its own; it tears or degrades over time. The real problem starts when the strut it's supposed to protect begins to fail as a result. You'll likely notice the symptoms of a bad strut, not the bellow itself.
- Visual Inspection: The most direct way to check the bellows is to look at them. Turn the steering wheel to one side to get a better view of the front suspension. You may see visible cracks, tears, or pieces of the boot missing entirely.
- Clunking or Rattling Noises: While a torn boot is silent, the damaged strut it causes is not. You may hear clunking or banging sounds when driving over bumps or uneven roads. Some Scion iQ owners have reported clunking from the front suspension, which can be related to worn strut components.
- Poor Ride Quality: A failed strut leads to a bouncy, unstable ride. Your iQ might also "nose-dive" forward when you brake hard or feel like it sways excessively on turns.
- Fluid Leaks: If you see oily fluid on the body of the strut, it's a sure sign the internal seal has failed, and the entire strut needs replacement.
Known Issue: Front Suspension Noise
Scion issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB S-TT-0078-14) for the 2012-2014 iQ regarding a "rattle or clunk type noise coming from the top front strut mount area." This indicates a known sensitivity in the iQ's front strut assembly. While not directly blaming the bellows, it points to the importance of using quality parts and ensuring proper installation in this area. Some owners in forums have traced similar noises to a loose top strut nut.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bellows
When replacing struts, it is standard practice to install new bellows at the same time. The labor to replace just a bellow is the same as replacing the whole strut, so it's not cost-effective to do it alone. For your Scion iQ, you have a choice between established brands and more budget-friendly options.
Brand Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (KYB): KYB is a massive Japanese company that is an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for many car brands. Their aftermarket parts are known for meeting or exceeding factory specifications. Choosing a KYB bellow kit ensures a high-quality material and proper fit, which is crucial for protecting your new struts for years to come. They are a trusted, reliable choice.
- Standard/Budget (Skyward): Skyward is a more budget-oriented brand. Very little independent review or long-term reliability data is available for their suspension components. While it may be a cost-effective option for a simple part like a bellow, the quality of the rubber or plastic material is an unknown. Given the critical protection this part provides, and the high cost of labor for a redo, sticking with a known brand like KYB is often the safer investment.
Pro Tip: Suspension bellows are almost always sold as part of a kit that includes the jounce bumper (a foam-like stopper). It is highly recommended to replace both the bellow and the bumper any time you replace a strut.
Estimated Replacement Costs for Scion iQ
The cost below reflects replacing the entire strut assembly, as the bellow is replaced during that job. Prices can vary based on your location and chosen repair shop.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Strut Assembly (1) | $120 - $180 |
| New Aftermarket Bellow Kit (1) | $19.97 - $30.09 |
| Shop Labor (1 Strut) | $180 - $270 |
| Total Professional Job (1 Side, Aftermarket) | $200 - $300 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I just replace the bellow and not the whole strut?
Technically yes, but it is not recommended. The labor cost to access the bellow requires completely disassembling the strut and spring assembly. If your bellows are torn, your struts have likely already been exposed to damaging debris. It is far more cost-effective to replace the struts, bellows, and mounts all at once.
Do I need to replace strut bellows in pairs?
Yes. Suspension components should always be replaced in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even performance and handling. If one bellow has failed from age, the other is likely not far behind.
Is replacing a strut bellow a DIY job?
This is an advanced DIY job. It requires lifting the vehicle and removing the strut assembly. The most dangerous part is using a spring compressor to remove the coil spring from the old strut. This tool is under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if it slips. If you are not experienced with suspension work, this job is best left to a professional mechanic.
Were there any recalls for the Scion iQ suspension?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no safety recalls for the suspension, struts, or bellows on the 2012-2015 Scion iQ. Recalls for this vehicle were related to the passenger-side airbag sensor system.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 48510-74081 48510-74080 48520-74081 48520-74080
This part is specific to the front suspension of the 2012-2015 Scion iQ. It is a flexible boot, typically made of rubber or thermoplastic, designed to cover the strut piston rod. It is usually sold in a kit with a foam jounce bumper.
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.
- Scion iQ: