Parts for your 1999 Subaru Forester-Exhaust mount

1999 Subaru Forester exhaust-mount: what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 1999 Subaru Forester uses exhaust mounts (also called exhaust hangers or insulators). Technical references that show them clearly include the Subaru Factory Service Manual (Exhaust System section for the SF-chassis Forester), the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue for SF models, and mainstream workshop guides like the Haynes manual covering 1997–2002 Forester. These sources illustrate multiple rubber insulators supporting the front pipe, centre section and rear muffler.

On the ’99 Forester, the exhaust mounts are those tough rubber cushions that hang the exhaust off the body brackets. Their job is to carry the weight of the system and isolate vibration so the cabin stays quiet and the exhaust can flex with engine movement and road bumps without cracking welds or stressing flanges. Without healthy mounts, the muffler can sag, knock on the rear subframe, or tug on joints and gaskets.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the mounts a look every 10–15,000 km or at each oil change. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—heat, rain, and the odd gravel road—rubber can perish or elongate over time. When the rubber stretches, the pipe drops a touch and starts tapping on brackets or heat shields.

• Things to watch for: thumps over bumps, a tinny rattle at idle, the tailpipe sitting low or off-centre, visible cracks or splits in the rubber, or shiny rub marks on nearby brackets.
• Replacement tips: support the exhaust with a jack stand, spray silicone lube on the pegs, and lever the old insulator off carefully. Fit the new mount the same way, then check clearances around the rear diff, subframe, bumper, and heat shields.

Many owners replace mounts in pairs or as a small set to keep the system sitting true. Factory-style rubber gives the best noise and vibration comfort. If the car carries a towbar, roof pod, or often hauls gear, slightly firmer aftermarket mounts can help limit sag, though they may transmit a tad more vibration.

On higher-kilometre Foresters or coastal cars, also check the steel hangers and brackets for surface rust—clean and coat them so a good new rubber mount isn’t hanging off a flaky hook. A workshop will usually sort a set of mounts in under an hour or two, and it’s a low-cost way to prevent bigger dramas like cracked welds or stressed catalytic converter joints.

How many exhaust mounts does a 1999 Forester have?

Typically several along the system—commonly one near the front/centre section and more at the rear muffler. The exact count can vary with trim and market spec, but there are enough to keep the pipe supported evenly from front to back.

Are firmer polyurethane mounts a good idea?

They can be helpful if the car carries extra weight or sees rough roads, as they resist sagging. For everyday comfort, OEM-style rubber usually keeps noise and vibration lower. It comes down to how the Forester is used.

Can worn mounts cause rattles or exhaust leaks?

Yes. Sagging mounts let the system sit out of alignment, which can make it knock on brackets or shields. Over time that extra movement can stress flanges and gaskets, contributing to leaks or cracked joints.