Q: One strut mount we up with a dust cap on, one without. How big of a deal is it?

asked by on January 17, 2018

A mechanic installed new front struts and mounts. When replacing the mounts/bearings he installed the dust cap and shim on one, but not on the other. How big of a deal is it? What does it mean for geometry, longevity etc? (he said it was fine).

Here's the old mounts with one cap that didn't go on the new ones: https://cl.ly/1L3o471Z1z1m

Thanks.

Hi Dan. Thanks for the question today. In regards to geometry, handling and "whether it’s fine", a dust cap should not have that great of an impact. I’m curious as to why the mechanic did this - as to me, that’s just lazy and not attention to detail. Make sure to have the suspension aligned ASAP by a professional alignment shop if you already haven’t.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I add engine coolant/water?
Adding engine coolant is an important part of maintenance. It is necessary for safe engine operation. To add engine coolant/water. Turn the engine off and let it cool completely. Wrap a rag or old thick cloth around the coolant reservoir...
How do I use the low traction mode?
Your vehicle may be equipped with an Allison Transmission or a Hydra-Matic 6-Speed Automatic Transition. If so, you will have a Low Traction Mode that can make it much easier to drive your car in inclement weather or slippery conditions...
Engine knocking
Knocking in your engine, also described as pinging, can mean one of several problems. Some may be easily fixed while others may indicate major damage. The knocking sound often occurs when the fuel and air mixture is incorrect, which causes...
Vehicle sputters and bogs down in drive
Hey there, it sounds like you may have an issue with fuel getting to the engine. The most likely cause of this is a failed fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter. With these conditions, I would recommend having a...
Car won't start or make any noise when the key turns over, but the battery has power because all my lights and radio is working.
Hi, thanks for writing in. This issue is most likely due to the starter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-starter). If the battery has full power, the starter is most likely receiving full power. If the starter is not working but it is receiving full...
Starting issues when it's cold outside
This is common for most cars in extreme winter months when the temperature drops. As you may know, car batteries create electrical current based upon chemical reactions inside the battery cell. When these chemicals are subjected to extreme cold, these...
Installed new front calipers on my car and they keep sticking
Check to be sure the mounting bracket (torque plate) for each caliper is not bent and that the sliding bushings/pins on the caliper/torque plate assembly are free and move easily. If you have rear drum brakes, there is a metering...
When I drive a lightning bolt light comes up on the dashboard and the car loses power
The lightning bolt symbol comes up when the computer detects that there is an issue with the vehicle's electronic throttle system. Your vehicle is equipped with a throttle plate that is controlled electronically, and receives its input from the accelerator...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2011 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid
This This “Sports Activity Vehicle” – a moniker bestowed by its maker – is one of those few cars that toes the line between SUV, hatchback sedan, and a just plain quirky car. Regardless of its true identity, however, the...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW 335d
Of Of all of the BMW 3-Series models available in this model year, the 2012 BMW 335d is one of the most powerful and subtlest on the road. This 4-dour sedan may look mild-mannered enough, but under the hood it’s...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a Tropical Climate
If If you live in a tropical climate, most of your vehicle purchasing concerns will be essentially the same as if you lived anywhere else – you want a car that looks good, offers decent gas mileage, and suits the...