Does a Toyota Camry have struts?
The Camry uses struts on the front and a separate rear suspension design, so there are front struts but not a single rear strut assembly. This article explains how the Camry’s suspension is laid out and what that means for maintenance and ride quality.
Front suspension: MacPherson struts
The front suspension in most Camry models relies on a MacPherson strut design, which combines a shock absorber and coil spring into a single assembly attached to the steering knuckle. This setup is compact, cost-effective, and common in modern sedans, prioritizing interior space and straightforward maintenance.
Key components of the front MacPherson setup
Before listing the major elements you’ll encounter in the front suspension, note that this configuration centers around a strut-based assembly that handles both damping and spring support.
- MacPherson strut assembly (shock absorber integrated with coil spring)
- Upper strut mount and bearing connected to the vehicle body
- Lower control arm that links the wheel hub to the chassis
- Sway bar link connecting the suspension to the anti-roll bar
- Steering knuckle that the strut attaches to
In practice, the front MacPherson setup offers predictable handling and efficient packaging, which aligns with the Camry’s emphasis on ride comfort and reliability.
Rear suspension: Multi-link independent
The Camry’s rear suspension typically uses a multi-link independent layout with coil springs and dedicated dampers. This arrangement allows each rear wheel to respond independently to road irregularities, enhancing ride quality and grip without the vibrations a solid axle might transmit.
Key components of the rear multi-link setup
Before listing the main parts of the rear suspension, understand that the multi-link design relies on several arms and links to locate the wheel while providing damping through separate shocks.
- Multiple control arms (upper and lower) for wheel alignment and motion control
- Coil springs supporting the chassis and ride height
- Independent shock absorbers/dampers for each rear wheel
- Anti-roll bar (stabilizer bar) in many configurations
- Toe/track links as part of the multi-link arrangement
Compared with a front-strut arrangement, the rear multi-link setup contributes to a smoother, more controlled ride across uneven surfaces and varying road conditions.
Summary
For most Toyota Camry models sold in recent years, the front suspension uses MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link independent design. This means there are front struts but not a rear strut assembly, reflecting a common compromise between cost, packaging, ride comfort, and handling in a mid-size sedan.
