Rear axle shock absorber mount for Ford Escort VII — TA Technix

The mount is the upper anchor point of the shock absorber: it supports the weight of the front end and allows the strut to pivot when steering. A sharp cracking sound when steering while stationary indicates a problem with its bearing.

Competition versions replace the rubber with a bearing and a rigid connection: direct feedback, zero deformation, sometimes integrated camber adjustment - and everything the shock absorber takes is transferred into the body.