How to Replace the Strut on a Subaru Forester

AvatarByCarl Frisch

Subaru Forester Strut Replacement is a repair that is necessary to replace worn or damaged struts on the Subaru Forester vehicle. Struts are used to support and hold up the vehicle’s suspension system, providing stability when driving. Replacing the strut can improve handling, ride comfort and safety. This repair requires removing the old strut assembly, replacing it with a new one, and reassembling the suspension components. The job can be done with basic automotive tools and some knowledge of how automobile suspension systems work. It is important to use high-quality parts for this job to ensure safety and proper performance. Careful attention should be paid to instructions when replacing struts on a Subaru Forester.

What is a Strut?

A strut is a suspension component that helps to keep a vehicle’s wheels firmly planted on the ground and provide stability for the vehicle. It consists of a metal spring, shock absorber, and other components. The shock absorber helps to absorb the bumps in the road and reduce the amount of vibration transmitted to the car’s occupants. The spring provides additional support, helping to reduce body roll when cornering. A strut works in conjunction with other suspension components, such as sway bars, to provide an overall smooth ride.

Why Replace The Strut On A Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester has an independent suspension system, which uses struts at the front and rear of the car. Over time, these struts can wear out or become damaged due to normal wear and tear or road conditions. When this happens, it can cause poor handling and control of your vehicle as it will no longer be able to adequately absorb bumps in the road and reduce body roll when cornering. Replacing your struts is important for maintaining optimal handling and control of your vehicle as well as improving ride comfort by helping to absorb vibrations caused by bumps in the road.

What Is Involved In Replacing The Strut?

Replacing a strut on a Subaru Forester involves first removing the old strut assembly from its mounting location under the vehicle. The mounting bolts must then be removed from their locations on either side of the strut assembly before it can be completely removed from the car. Once removed, it is important to inspect all of the remaining parts for any signs of damage or wear before installing new parts.

When it comes time for installation, first ensure that all new parts are properly lubricated before fitting them into place on either side of the strut assembly. It is also important to make sure that all mounting bolts are properly tightened so that they do not come loose during use. After installation is complete, it is recommended that you have a professional mechanic check all components of your suspension system for proper operation before driving again.

Strut Replacement on a Subaru Forester

The struts on a Subaru Forester are part of the suspension system, and play an important role in the vehicle’s handling and ride comfort. Over time, these components can wear out and need to be replaced. Replacing struts requires some tools, parts, and know-how, but with the right supplies and instructions it can be done fairly easily.

Tools Needed

The most basic tools required for a strut replacement on a Subaru Forester are a socket or wrench set, as well as either a jack and jack stands or lift. Depending on the model of Forester you have, more specialized tools may be needed. Consult your owner’s manual for specific information about what type of tools will be required for your particular model.

Parts Needed

In addition to the tools needed for strut replacement, there are also certain parts that must be obtained in order to complete the job. The most important part is the replacement struts themselves; these should match the size and type of those currently installed in your vehicle. Additionally, you will need mounts and bushings to ensure proper installation of the new struts.

Benefits of Strut Replacement

Once you have replaced your struts on your Subaru Forester, you should notice an immediate improvement in ride quality and handling ability. The new struts will help to keep your vehicle level when cornering or driving over uneven terrain, which can make for a much smoother ride overall. Additionally, replacing worn out struts can improve braking performance as well as increase fuel efficiency by reducing drag from worn out components that may otherwise cause drag on the engine.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is a strut?
A: A strut is a type of suspension component primarily used in the front suspension of a vehicle. It combines the functions of a shock absorber and coil spring into one component, allowing for improved handling and ride quality while also reducing the overall cost of production.

Q: Why replace the strut on a Subaru Forester?
A: Replacing the struts on a Subaru Forester can improve handling and stability, increase ride comfort, and improve cornering ability. Over time struts can wear out, leading to reduced performance and potential safety issues.

Q: What is involved in replacing the strut?
A: Replacing the strut on a Subaru Forester requires specific tools such as socket or wrench set and a jack and jack stands or lift as well as parts such as replacement struts, mounts, and bushings. The job should only be attempted by experienced mechanics or technicians due to the complexity of removing and installing suspension components.

Q: What tools are needed for strut replacement on a Subaru Forester?
A: Tools needed for strut replacement on a Subaru Forester include socket or wrench set and jack and jack stands or lift. It’s important to ensure that these tools are available before attempting any work on the vehicle’s suspension.

Q: What parts are needed for strut replacement on a Subaru Forester?
A: Parts needed for strut replacement on a Subaru Forester include replacement struts, mounts, bushings, etc. It’s important to make sure that all necessary components are available before beginning any work in order to ensure successful completion of the job.

In conclusion, replacing the struts in a Subaru Forester is a relatively easy task that any car owner can complete with the right tools and instructions. With the right parts and instructions, the job can be completed in an hour or two. The job does require some basic mechanical knowledge and skills to ensure that everything is replaced correctly and securely. After replacing the struts, it is important to take the time to test drive the vehicle to ensure that everything is working properly and that there are no safety issues.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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