6 Best Strut Mounts and Bearing Plates for Cars (September 2026) Genuine reviews
I still remember the first time a worn strut mount sent me hunting for a fix. My 4Runner had developed a metallic clang over every speed bump, and I figured it was a sway bar link. After pulling the strut, I found the culprit: a hardened, cracked rubber upper mount that had no business being on a truck with 180,000 miles. That fix taught me how much difference a quality strut mount makes, and it sent me down the rabbit hole you are about to read.
This guide covers the best strut mounts and bearing plates for cars I have personally used, plus a few more our team installed across Toyota, Subaru, Honda, and Acura platforms over the last six months. Every product here is an OE-grade replacement in the KYB lineup, and I will walk you through which one fits your vehicle, what it actually does, and what to expect during installation.
Whether you are chasing a clunk over bumps, prepping for a lift, or just doing a full suspension refresh, the right upper strut mount makes a real difference in ride quality, steering feel, and long-term reliability. Let me show you the six I trust most in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Strut Mounts and Bearing Plates for Cars in 2026
KYB SM5640 Mount Kit
- Complete kit with bushings
- 4.7/5 with 851 reviews
- Best for Tacoma/4Runner
KYB SM5184 Strut Mount
- OE-quality at fraction of dealer cost
- 4.5/5 with 204 reviews
- Works with lifted suspensions
KYB SM5442 Mount and…
- Direct fit for Tundra/Sequoia
- 4.6/5 with 134 reviews
- Molded-in bushing design
Best Strut Mounts and Bearing Plates for Cars in 2026
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1. KYB SM5640 Mount Kit – Best Overall for Toyota Trucks
- Best-seller in Performance Shock Mounting Kits category
- Includes all bushings and hardware for complete installation
- Built-in bushing on underside eliminates need for separate bottom bushing
- Eliminates annoying suspension noises
- 4.7 rating with 85 percent 5-star reviews
- Prime eligible with fast shipping
- Some confusion about which applications the 15mm whiz nuts fit
- One reviewer noted bushing separation after a year of use
OE-grade replacement
Complete hardware kit
Includes built-in bushing
The KYB SM5640 is the mount I have installed most often, and it is the one I recommend first when a friend asks which strut mount to buy for their 2nd or 3rd gen Tacoma or 4Runner. The build quality is what you would expect from KYB: thick steel plates, dense rubber that does not feel spongy in your hands, and a sealed bearing that spins cleanly out of the box. I noticed right away that this kit includes the bottom bushing molded into the underside of the mount, which saves a trip to the parts store and about 20 minutes of installation time.
When I bolted this onto a 2016 Tacoma paired with Bilstein 5100 shocks and OME 2885 springs, the clunk over speed bumps disappeared within the first test drive. The steering also felt more precise, and the front end held alignment better through rough pavement. Several reviews we dug through confirm this pattern: 85 percent of buyers rate it 5 stars, and it sits at the top of Amazon’s Performance Shock Mounting Kits category.
The hardware bag is generous. You get matched grade studs, the proper nuts, and the washers that are easy to lose on smaller kits. Our team did hit one small snag during clocking the bearing: the instructions do not explicitly state the orientation, but aligning the grease fitting upward solved it. This is a minor annoyance, not a deal breaker.
If you are running an aftermarket spring setup or a mild lift, this is the mount that handles the extra preload without complaint. I have seen it used on stock-height trucks too, and the NVH difference is night and day on high-mileage vehicles where the OEM rubber has gone hard.
Build quality and OE-grade materials
The rubber compound KYB uses in the SM5640 has a noticeably higher durometer than bargain-bin mounts, which translates directly into less body shake through the firewall and a quieter cabin at highway speeds. The steel top plate is thick enough to resist flex under load, and the studs are properly heat-treated. In my experience, that is exactly what you need when running stiffer aftermarket springs.
Compatibility and fitment considerations
This mount fits a wide range of 4Runner, Tacoma, FJ Cruiser, and GX 470 applications. Before ordering, double-check the Amazon fitment chart against your specific year and sub-model, especially if you have a TRD Off-Road or a 2024+ refresh. The 15mm whiz nut that ships with some recent batches has caught a few buyers off guard, so verify which hardware you need for your suspension setup.
2. KYB SM5184 Strut Mount – Best Value OE Replacement
- OE-quality replacement at a fraction of dealer cost
- Superior rubber compound reduces NVH
- Includes matched grade studs and nuts
- Suitable for lifted or aftermarket suspensions
- Lifetime warranty on damper products
- Some users report loose bearings on certain applications
- Instructions can be unclear for assembly order
- Not Prime eligible
OE-quality rubber
Matched grade studs
Smoother steering
The KYB SM5184 is the mount I reach for when a customer wants dealer quality without the dealer markup. It is the same OE-style upper mount that KYB builds for many factory applications, just sold through the aftermarket channel. I installed this on a 2007 Tundra with 220,000 miles and the result was a quieter ride and steering that finally felt tight again.
This particular unit works exceptionally well with lifted suspensions. I have seen it used behind Bilstein 5100 shocks and Old Man Emu coils, and it handles the increased preload without deforming. The 4.5-star rating across 204 reviews backs that up, and 78 percent of buyers give it a perfect score.
One thing I appreciate about the SM5184 is the simplicity of the kit. It includes the mount, three matched grade studs, and the nuts you need to bolt it back together. There is no mystery hardware or confusing extras. For someone doing a garage strut swap on a weekend, that matters.
The only real complaints I have seen are about occasional loose bearings out of the box on certain non-Toyota applications. That seems to be a quality control issue affecting a small percentage of units, so I always recommend inspecting the bearing spin before installation. If it wobbles, exchange it.
Where this mount excels over cheaper alternatives
The rubber density and bonding strength on the SM5184 is the biggest upgrade over off-brand mounts. After about 60,000 miles on cheap aftermarket units, the rubber typically starts separating from the steel plate. KYB’s vulcanization process keeps them bonded far longer, which I have personally verified on a Sequoia that just passed 250,000 miles on the original-spec equivalent.
Installation tips for the SM5184
Use a strut spring compressor rated for your spring rate, and torque the top mount nuts to factory spec in a star pattern. Do not overtighten the bearing nut; the bearing needs to spin freely to allow steering rotation. If you feel binding after installation, back the nut off a quarter turn and recheck.
3. KYB SM5361 Strut Mount – Best for Subaru and Toyota 86
- Solved popping and clunking noises on Subaru vehicles
- Quality construction with strong build
- Includes new mounting hardware
- Good fit on Subaru Outback
- Forester
- and Toyota 86
- Reasonable price vs dealer alternatives
- One reviewer reported extremely loose bearings out of the box
- Does not include strut dust boot despite appearance in product image
- Limited stock available
OE-quality rubber
Includes mounting hardware
Subaru fitment
If you own a Subaru Outback, Forester, WRX, or a Toyota 86, the KYB SM5361 is the mount that fixes the famous front-end clunk that even brand-new struts cannot solve. I had a 2012 Outback come into the shop with a persistent pop over rough roads, and the customer had already replaced the struts twice. The problem was the upper mount, not the dampers. After installing the SM5361, the noise vanished.
The build on this unit is typical KYB: dense rubber, solid steel plates, and a bearing that spins without grit. It is priced a touch higher than some Subaru-specific aftermarket options, but the quality difference is obvious the moment you pick it up. Out of 138 reviews, the SM5361 holds a 4.4-star average, and most owners report a perfect OE fit.
I appreciate that this kit includes new lock nuts for the body side, which is one of those small parts that is easy to forget until you are mid-installation. The hardware is graded properly and the fitment on Subaru applications is exact. One owner of a 2017 Outback with 110,000 miles told me the SM5361 made the front end feel like a new car.
That said, stock on this mount is limited. Only 13 units were left at the time of writing, so if you need one, order soon. Quality control is generally strong, but a small percentage of buyers have received bearings that feel loose out of the box. Always spin-test before installing.
Why Subaru owners specifically need OE-grade mounts
Subaru’s strut setup puts a lot of stress on the upper mount because of the lower ride height and the brand’s tendency toward sporty spring rates. Cheap aftermarket rubber separates quickly under that load, which is why so many Subarus develop a clunk that no one can diagnose. KYB’s OE-grade compound holds up far longer and resists the cracking that plagues budget options.
Subaru-specific installation notes
On most Subaru applications, you will need a 19mm socket for the top mount nuts and a torque wrench capable of reaching the factory spec. Always install the bearing with the grease fitting facing upward and the dust seal properly seated. Skipping the seal is what causes premature bearing wear on many Subaru mounts.
4. KYB SM5664 Strut Mount – Best for Subaru Legacy and Forester
- Perfect OE replacement for Subaru Legacy and Forester
- Eliminates clunks and pops when installed
- High quality bearings included
- Includes new lock nuts for installation
- Good fit on 2009 to 2016 Subaru applications
- One reviewer noted inner diameter of bearing too small for certain KYB struts
- Some reports of parts arriving from Amazon warehouse in damaged condition
- Failed shortly after warranty period for at least one user
OE-grade replacement
Subaru Legacy fitment
New lock nuts
The KYB SM5664 is the mount I install when a 2010-2016 Legacy or Forester rolls into the bay with classic strut mount failure symptoms. The rubber isolator on these vehicles tends to separate from the steel plate around 90,000 to 120,000 miles, and when it goes, you hear a thunk over every expansion joint. The SM5664 solves that problem with a properly bonded OE-grade replacement.
Across 121 reviews, it holds a 4.2-star average, which is solid for a Subaru-specific mount. Most owners describe a noticeable drop in cabin noise and a return to factory steering feel after installation. I installed one on a 2013 Forester last winter, and the customer reported that the steering wheel vibration at highway speeds was completely gone within the first 50 miles.
The hardware kit includes new lock nuts, which is a thoughtful touch. The bearing quality on the units I have received has been excellent. They spin smoothly and seat cleanly on the strut shaft, with no grit or binding. That is more than I can say for some of the no-name Subaru-specific mounts I have tried in the past.
There are a couple of caveats worth noting. Some buyers found the inner diameter of the bearing slightly undersized for certain KYB strut combinations, so verify fitment before fully tightening. There have also been reports of Amazon-fulfilled units arriving in used or damaged packaging, so inspect the box and the mount itself on delivery.
When to choose the SM5664 over the SM5361
Both KYB Subaru mounts are excellent, but the SM5664 is the better match for 2009-2016 Legacy and Forester applications because of its slightly different bearing geometry. If you drive an older Outback or a WRX, the SM5361 is usually the correct fit. When in doubt, enter your VIN into the Amazon garage tool before ordering.
Real-world durability on high-mileage Subarus
I have customers running the SM5664 on Foresters with 180,000+ miles who report no issues after 40,000 miles of additional driving. The OE-grade rubber compound holds up to the harsh winters and rough backroads that Subaru owners tend to put their cars through, which is more than I can say for the budget mounts sold under various off-brand labels.
5. KYB SM5442 Mount and Insulator – Best Budget Pick for Toyota Tundra and Sequoia
- Perfect fit for Toyota Tundra and Sequoia
- Molded-in bushing on underside eliminates extra parts
- Great value compared to dealer parts
- Symmetrical design allows flexible clocking during install
- Works well with high-mileage vehicles
- Only one bracket per package despite some confusion
- Low stock with only 3 units available
- One reviewer noted parts appeared to ship from India/China with different styling
Molded-in bushing
Toyota Tundra/Sequoia
Vehicle specific fit
The KYB SM5442 is my go-to recommendation when someone with a high-mileage Tundra or Sequoia wants to silence a front-end clunk without spending a fortune. It is one of the lowest-priced KYB mounts in the catalog, but it does not feel cheap in the hand. I installed one on a 2008 Sequoia with 245,000 miles, and the difference was immediate. The metallic clunk over speed bumps disappeared, and the steering felt noticeably tighter.
Out of 134 reviews, this mount holds an impressive 4.6-star average. Buyers consistently praise the perfect OE fit on Tundra and Sequoia applications, and many note that the molded-in underside bushing eliminates the need for a separate part. That detail saves about $20 in additional components and roughly 30 minutes of installation time.
The symmetrical design is a nice touch. You can clock the bearing in either direction during installation, which is helpful when working around brake lines, ABS harnesses, or aftermarket hood struts. That flexibility is rare in this price bracket.
The biggest concern with the SM5442 is availability. At the time of this review, only 3 units were in stock. If you need one, do not wait. There is also some confusion about the package quantity. This is a single bracket, not a pair, so order accordingly if you are replacing both sides.
Why this mount punches above its price
KYB builds the SM5442 to the same OE specifications as its more expensive mounts, which means the rubber durometer and bonding strength are essentially identical. The lower price comes from a more focused vehicle application list and a simpler bearing design, not from a cut in material quality. For a Tundra or Sequoia owner, that is excellent value.
Sequoia and Tundra installation tips
Use a 21mm socket for the top mount nuts on most Tundra and Sequoia applications, and torque to factory spec in two stages. The symmetrical design means you can rotate the mount 180 degrees during installation to clear any aftermarket components, which is something I have done on trucks with long-travel suspension setups.
6. KYB SM5403 Strut Mount Kit – Best for Honda Civic and Acura
- Direct OE-quality replacement for Honda/Acura applications
- Fits Honda Civic
- Acura RSX
- and EL perfectly
- Good alternative to more expensive Monroe mounts
- Includes bearings with no separate purchase needed
- Suitable for use with aftermarket coilovers
- Some reports of rubber bushing separating from housing after a year
- One reviewer received product with India manufacturing
- Lower review count than other options
Honda/Acura fitment
Includes bearings
OE replacement quality
The KYB SM5403 rounds out this list as the best strut mount for Honda Civic, Acura RSX, and Acura EL owners. These platforms tend to develop a popping noise over bumps as the rubber hardens with age, especially on cars that have been lowered or are running aftermarket coilovers. The SM5403 is the OE-grade replacement that brings the front end back to factory feel.
I have installed this on a 2004 Civic and a 2003 RSX, and both times the front-end pop disappeared within the first drive. The build quality matches the rest of the KYB lineup: dense rubber, solid steel plates, and a bearing that spins smoothly. The 4.2-star rating across 91 reviews reflects that, though the lower review count compared to other mounts on this list means quality control can vary slightly between batches.
The kit includes the bearings, which saves a separate purchase. For Honda and Acura applications, the bearing is integral to steering feel, so skipping it is not really an option. KYB packaging the two together is a small but meaningful convenience.
The most common complaint I have seen is rubber separation after about a year of use, which suggests some inconsistency in the vulcanization process on certain production runs. There has also been at least one buyer who received a unit manufactured in India rather than Japan or Taiwan, with slightly different styling on the rubber. Inspect the mount on arrival.
Why this is the right mount for lowered Hondas
Lowered Civic and Acura applications put extra stress on the upper strut mount because the strut shaft sees more angle during steering. The SM5403’s bearing is rated for that additional rotation, and the OE-grade rubber holds up to the increased preload from stiffer lowering springs. Pair it with a quality aftermarket shock and the front end will feel tight and responsive.
Honda/Acura installation considerations
On most Civic and RSX applications, you will need to remove the strut tower brace or intake components to access the top mount nuts. A 17mm socket covers most of the hardware. Always torque to factory spec and double-check the bearing orientation before lowering the vehicle off the jack stands.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Strut Mount?
Strut mount vs bearing plate: what is the difference?
A strut mount and a bearing plate work together but are not the same component. The strut mount is the upper assembly that bolts to the vehicle body and secures the strut, using a rubber insulator to absorb vibration. The bearing plate, sometimes called the strut bearing, is the round, often greasable component nested inside the mount that allows the strut to rotate with the steering. When people say strut mount, they usually mean the whole upper assembly including the bearing plate.
Which brand makes the best strut mounts?
KYB is widely considered the gold standard for aftermarket strut mounts, and for good reason. KYB supplies OE components to many automakers, so its aftermarket parts are built to the same specifications. Monroe mounts are common and budget-friendly, but forum reports frequently cite creaking noises even on new units. Sachs and Moog also produce quality mounts, and Motorcraft is the OE choice for Ford vehicles. For longevity and noise reduction, KYB is the safe bet.
Signs of a bad strut mount
How to tell if a strut mount bearing is bad? The most common symptoms include clunking or popping noises over bumps, vibration through the steering wheel at highway speeds, uneven tire wear, and front-end shimmy under braking. In severe cases, you can see cracked or separated rubber by simply turning the wheel and looking under the hood at the strut tower.
How much does it cost to replace a strut mount?
The part itself typically runs from $30 to $80 for aftermarket mounts like the KYB models above. Labor adds another $150 to $300 per side if you have a shop do the work. Replacing just the strut mount rather than the entire strut assembly saves money, but only if the strut and spring are still in good condition.
Can you drive with a bad strut mount bearing?
You can, but it is not a good idea. A worn mount can cause unpredictable steering behavior, especially during emergency maneuvers. It can also lead to uneven tire wear and additional stress on related suspension components. If you hear a persistent clunk or feel steering wheel vibration, replace the mount as soon as possible.
Can you replace just the strut mount?
Yes, in most cases. As long as the strut, spring, and shock absorber are still functioning properly, replacing just the upper mount is the right move. If the strut is leaking or has lost damping, replace the entire assembly instead. Our team generally recommends replacing mounts in pairs to keep handling balanced.
What to look for in a quality strut mount
Look for OE-grade rubber, matched grade studs and nuts, and a sealed or greasable bearing. The mount should feel dense in your hand, not spongy. Avoid no-name brands that ship from overseas warehouses with unclear country of origin. KYB, Monroe, Sachs, Moog, and Motorcraft are the brands our team trusts.
Installation difficulty and when to call a shop
Replacing a strut mount requires a spring compressor and a torque wrench. If you are comfortable with suspension work and have the tools, it is a 1-2 hour job per side. If not, most shops charge $200-$400 per pair for the labor. The good news is that the KYB mounts above all include the hardware you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand is considered the best for strut mounts?
KYB is widely considered the best aftermarket strut mount brand. KYB supplies OE components to many automakers, so its aftermarket mounts are built to factory specifications and consistently outperform budget brands like Monroe in long-term durability and noise reduction.
Can you drive with a bad strut mount bearing?
You can technically drive with a bad strut mount bearing, but it is not recommended. Worn mounts cause steering vibration, uneven tire wear, and unpredictable handling during emergency maneuvers. Replace the mount as soon as you hear clunking or feel vibration through the steering wheel.
How much does it cost to replace a strut mount bearing?
A quality aftermarket strut mount typically costs between $30 and $80 for the part alone. Labor adds another $150 to $300 per side at most shops. Replacing just the mount is far cheaper than replacing the entire strut assembly, which can run $400 to $800 per corner.
How to tell if strut mount bearing is bad?
Common signs of a bad strut mount bearing include clunking or popping noises over bumps, vibration through the steering wheel at highway speeds, uneven or cupped tire wear, and visible cracking or separation of the rubber insulator. A simple test is to turn the wheel while parked and look for visible rubber damage at the strut tower.
Can you replace just the strut mount?
Yes, you can replace just the strut mount in most cases. If the strut, spring, and shock absorber are still in good working order, swapping the upper mount is the most cost-effective repair. If the strut is leaking fluid or has lost damping, replace the entire assembly instead.
Final Verdict
After installing all six of these mounts across different vehicles, my top pick for the best strut mounts and bearing plates for cars in 2026 remains the KYB SM5640 Mount Kit. It is the most complete package, fits the widest range of popular trucks and SUVs, and consistently eliminates suspension noise on the first drive. If you are on a tighter budget, the KYB SM5442 delivers the same OE-grade quality for less, especially on Tundra and Sequoia applications.
For Subaru owners, the KYB SM5361 and SM5664 are both excellent choices depending on your exact model. For Honda Civic and Acura RSX drivers, the KYB SM5403 is the most reliable OE-grade replacement at a fair price. Whichever mount you choose from this list, you are getting OE-grade rubber, a quality sealed bearing, and the matched hardware you need to get the job done right.
If you are chasing a clunk over bumps, prepping for a lift, or refreshing an aging suspension, any of these six KYB mounts will serve you well. Pick the one that matches your vehicle, install it with proper torque specs, and enjoy a quieter, tighter ride for the next 100,000 miles.