Parts for your 2006 Subaru Forester-Strut mounts

2006 Subaru Forester strut mounts — purpose, care, and when to replace

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant to the 2006 Subaru Forester. The Subaru 2006 Forester Factory Service Manual (Chassis/Suspension sections) specifies MacPherson struts up front and strut-type rear suspension, each using upper strut mounts. Subaru’s electronic parts catalogue lists front strut mount and bearing assemblies and rear strut mounts for the SG Forester. Major application guides from KYB and Monroe for the 2006 Forester also include both front strut mount/bearing plates and rear mounts as service items. So yes—this model is built with strut mounts front and rear.

On a 2006 Forester, the front strut mounts do two big jobs: they isolate noise and vibration from the body, and they house a bearing that lets the strut pivot smoothly as the wheels steer. The rear strut mounts don’t steer, but they still cushion impacts and help keep the suspension geometry stable. Healthy mounts mean a quieter cabin, more precise steering feel, and more consistent tyre wear.

They’re not a lubricate-or-adjust kind of part—once the rubber hardens or cracks, or the front bearing gets notchy, replacement is the fix. A good rule of thumb is to have them inspected whenever the struts are replaced, or every 40,000–60,000 km if the Forester spends time on corrugations or rough tracks. Many owners see 120,000–200,000 km from original mounts, but age, heat, and load accelerate wear.

• Common signs they’re tired: clunks over sharp bumps, a creak or knock when turning the wheel at parking speeds, vague steering, tramlining, or odd tyre wear on the shoulders.
• Check for perished rubber, torn bushings, rusted or loose studs, and play in the front mount bearing.

When it’s time, replace mounts in pairs on the same axle. Use quality mounts matched to the SG Forester. Front mounts include a bearing—fit it in the correct orientation and always use a proper spring compressor. Replace any single-use self-locking nuts, and torque fasteners to the Subaru spec from the service manual. A wheel alignment is essential after refitting, because mount height and position affect camber and caster. If the struts are coming out anyway, new top mounts are cheap insurance against future noise and a second round of labour.

Keeping the mounting towers clean and checking the insulation pads and dust boots during service helps the new mounts last longer, especially in Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

Popular questions about 2006 Subaru Forester strut mounts

Do 2006 Foresters have strut mounts front and rear?
Yes. The SG Forester runs MacPherson-style struts at the front with a bearing-type top mount, and strut-type rears with an isolating top mount. Both ends use mounts that can wear and be replaced independently of the strut.

How long do the mounts typically last?
It varies with roads and load, but many see 120,000–200,000 km. City cars on smooth roads go longer, vehicles doing gravel, towing, or loaded family trips may need mounts earlier. Replace on condition—noise, cracking, or steering notchiness means it’s time.

Do you need an alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Definitely. Changing mounts can alter ride height and pivot position, which shifts camber and caster. A post-job alignment brings the Forester back to spec and protects tyre life.