Parts for your 2004 Subaru Forester-Strut mounts

2004 Subaru Forester Strut-Mounts

Technical sources confirm that strut-mounts are absolutely used on the 2004 Subaru Forester (SG). The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2004 Forester (Chassis/Suspension sections), Subaru’s OEM parts catalogues, and major fitment guides from suspension manufacturers (e.g., KYB, Monroe) all specify front and rear MacPherson struts with corresponding upper strut mounts (often called “strut tops”). The front mounts incorporate a bearing for steering rotation, the rear mounts provide isolation and support.

On this Forester, the strut-mounts sit at the top of each strut and bolt to the body. They do a few big jobs: locate the strut securely, isolate road vibration and noise, and—at the front—allow the strut to rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When the rubber in the mount deteriorates, or the bearing dries out, owners will notice extra vibration, clunks over bumps, or notchy steering. Left too long, a tired mount can chew through tyres and make the car feel vague or crashy on rough Kiwi and Aussie roads.

There isn’t a strict replacement interval, but they’re a smart change whenever front or rear struts are replaced. Many workshops treat mounts as consumables around the same time struts wear out—often somewhere between 100,000 and 200,000 kilometres, sooner if the Forester sees corrugations, towing, or plenty of urban speed bumps.

• Common signs of worn strut-mounts:
  • Clunks or creaks over driveways and speed humps
  • Notchy steering or poor return-to-centre
  • Uneven or rapid tyre wear and front-end vibration
• Servicing tips for a 2004 Forester:
  • Inspect mounts whenever the struts are out, replace in axle pairs
  • Use quality mounts with integrated bearing for the front
  • Tighten to factory torque and get a wheel alignment straight after
  • Listen for fresh noises after fitment—recheck torque if anything sounds off

For owners keen to keep their SG Forester feeling tight and safe, fresh strut-mounts restore steering feel, trim noise, and help protect new struts and tyres. It’s a modest add-on during suspension work that pays off every time the road gets a bit rough.

Popular questions about 2004 Subaru Forester strut-mounts

Do all 2004 Foresters have strut-mounts front and rear?
Yes. The SG Forester runs MacPherson struts at both ends. The fronts use a bearing-style mount for steering rotation, while the rears use a robust rubber isolator-style top mount.

Should strut-mounts be replaced with the struts?
It’s highly recommended. Old mounts can rattle or bind and will shorten the life of new struts. Replacing mounts with the struts saves labour, sharpens steering feel, and reduces the chance of noise later on.

How long do strut-mounts last on a Forester?
It varies with conditions and load, but many last 100,000–200,000 km. Frequent gravel, corrugations, or heavy urban use can bring that forward. Inspect them at each suspension service or when tyres show unusual wear.