Parts for your 1998 Subaru Forester-Suspension bushes

1998 Subaru Forester suspension-bushes — what they do and when to replace

Yes, the 1998 Subaru Forester (SF) is fitted with suspension bushes. Technical references including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 1998 Forester (Front and Rear Suspension sections) and the Subaru OEM parts catalogue for the SF chassis list multiple bushes throughout the car: front lower control arm bushes, front and rear stabiliser (sway) bar D‑bushes and end link bushes, rear trailing arm and lateral link bushes, as well as subframe and crossmember mounting bushes. They’re fundamental to how the Forester rides, steers, and keeps tyres planted.

Suspension bushes are the quiet achievers. Made of rubber or polyurethane, they isolate noise and vibration while allowing controlled movement of arms and links. In the Forester, they help maintain wheel alignment under braking and cornering, reduce harshness on corrugations, and keep the body settled across Aussie and Kiwi backroads. When they’re worn, the car can wander, clunk over bumps, shimmy under braking, and chew out tyres.

For servicing, it’s smart practice to inspect all bushes every 20,000 km or 12 months, and sooner if the vehicle tows, runs taller tyres, or sees gravel and coastal conditions. Look for cracking, separation, oil swelling, ovalled inner sleeves, and excessive movement with a pry bar. Any torn or perished bush should be replaced in pairs on the same axle to keep handling consistent.

Replacement tips that suit the 1998 Forester:

• Choose quality OEM‑style rubber for factory comfort, or polyurethane for sharper response (with a touch more NVH).
• Many bushes are press-fit