I plan to replace all four struts (standard suspension, not air) in my 2007 LS460, 150K miles, with KYB components. I believe KYB is a good aftermarket choice (let me know if you disagree). My question to those who did this, is if you also replaced the strut mounts. I am specifically talking about the strut bearings in the front and the top mounts in the back. The struts on my car are original. Were yours in good enough shape to reuse or should they be replaced regardless of condition at this mileage?

 

It depends on if you are paying for labor or not. If you do DYI replacement, make sure to check the mounts and re-use if no issues found. Otherwise, replace mounts as a per-caution.

 

Thanks, I plan to DIY.
It sounds like you don't trust shops to evaluate the mounts, but they may have the experience to do so better than I. I was expecting the opposite advice, actually.
If you did it, what shape were the old mounts?

Christos.

 

I replaced my struts at ~150k miles, the mounts were still in good shape.

 

I bought new ones but the originals were okay at 129k for me

 

Thank you, very helpful. What brand did you use and how do you like them?

 

I used OEM...

 

Well, you can't go wrong with that! I am trying to do it cheaper than OEM.
I am curious, where the original struts shot at that mileage? The rear ones on mine are leaking, so they definitely need to be replaced.

 

Yes, rear ones were ok but front ones were bad to the point that the car felt unsafe on highway.

 

I used KYB mounts with KYB struts. Been great.

 

Seems like if your using quality quick struts then they will come with new bushings etc. the climate the car has lived in, is going to be the factor for what needs to be replaced or what can be reused. They aren’t expensive, so if you come across anything that is suspect, just replace it while u have it apart.

 

Yes, replace your strut mounts, if you use KYB mounts they come with bellow and bump stop. By the way, there are no mount bearings on the LS460. Must be very careful with springs compression. Very large springs on these cars. I use two sets of spring compressors.

 

Thanks to everyone who responded, especially those who commended about KYB parts. You convinced me to replace both struts and mounts. It will add about $200, but worth it, based on your experience.

Don't get me wrong, I am not try to be cheap. Had this been a german car, I would replace the mounts in an instant. The Lexus is a new experience for me.

 

If you want an XF40 to last then treat it like a German car, just like those if you follow maintenance requirements and accept that it will need consumables like the control arms etc it will last you until it rusts away.

 

I am used to BMW maintenance, Lexus maintenance seems a lot easier! :-)

Another question: Should I replace the spring insulators? Do the strut mounts come with them? I assume this are dealer-only items.