Parts for your 1998 Subaru Forester-Exhaust mount

1998 Subaru Forester exhaust-mount — what it is, why it matters, and how to look after it

Based on technical references including the 1998 Forester (SF) Factory Service Manual exhaust section, the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue, and OEM parts diagrams for the SF5 chassis, the 1998 Subaru Forester uses multiple rubber exhaust mounts (also called hangers). These mounts support the front pipe, centre pipe and rear muffler, isolating vibration and allowing thermal movement. So an exhaust-mount is absolutely relevant and fitted to this vehicle.

On the 1998 Forester, exhaust mounts do three key jobs: they hold the system at the correct height and angle, they decouple engine and road vibrations from the body, and they let the pipes expand and contract as they heat and cool. When the rubber bushes harden, crack or stretch, the tailpipe can sit wonky, knock on the subframe or towbar, and transmit a droning vibe through the cabin. Left too long, a sagging system can stress the front pipe or flex joint and shorten the life of gaskets and oxygen sensors.

As part of routine servicing, it’s good practice to inspect each mount at service intervals, or roughly every 20,000–30,000 kilometres. Look for perished rubber, splits around the peg holes, elongation, oil soaking, or shiny witness marks where the exhaust has been touching the body or heat shields. Replacement is straightforward: support the exhaust, slip the old hanger off its pegs, and fit a new one. A spritz of silicone spray helps, avoid petroleum grease, which can attack rubber. After fitting, check clearances around the rear bumper, sway bar, differential crossmember and towbar, and make sure the muffler sits level.

• Typical symptoms of worn mounts: thumps over bumps, metallic tapping at idle, droopy tailpipe, new exhaust leaks after bumps, or a buzz that comes and goes with engine load.
• Parts choice: OEM rubber gives factory comfort, quality polyurethane hangers (around 70A durometer) add support for aged systems or cars carrying loads, with a small increase in transmitted vibration.

Because the Forester sees plenty of coastal and rural use across Australia and New Zealand, environmental exposure is a factor. UV, road grime and salt can age the rubber, so owners often replace the rear muffler mounts first, then the centre hanger. When refitting brackets, snug the hardware and recheck after a short drive once the system has heat-cycled, the exhaust will settle a few millimetres as the new mounts bed in.

Popular questions about 1998 Subaru Forester exhaust-mounts

Where are the exhaust mounts located on a 1998 Subaru Forester?
The SF Forester typically has a hanger near the front/centre pipe area, one around the mid-section, and two at the rear muffler can. Some trims include an additional stay or bracket depending on market equipment and towbar fitment. Exact count and placement can vary slightly by build and replacement history, but three to four rubber mounts is common.

How often should exhaust mounts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval in the manuals, but condition-based replacement is standard. In local conditions, many vehicles need new rear hangers every 5–8 years, sooner if exposed to oil leaks, coastal air or rough roads. If any mount shows cracking, elongation or allows contact with the body, replace as a set in that area for best alignment.

Is it safe to drive if an exhaust mount breaks?
Driving with a failed mount can let the exhaust swing and strike underbody parts, stress the flex joint, or melt nearby plastics. Noise and emissions compliance can also be affected. Short, gentle trips to a workshop might be possible if the system is secured, but prompt repair is the sensible choice.