Parts for your 2008 Subaru Exiga-Strut mounts

2008 Subaru Exiga strut mounts – what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical sources – including the Subaru Exiga (YA) Workshop Manual, the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue for YA models, and period spec sheets – the 2008 Subaru Exiga runs MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a double‑wishbone setup at the rear. That means proper strut mounts (strut top mounts with an integrated bearing) are fitted on the front axle and are absolutely relevant for this model. The rear uses shock/coil units with separate upper mounts, not front‑style strut mounts.

Up front, the Exiga’s strut mounts do a surprisingly big job. They secure the strut to the body, isolate road noise and vibration with a rubber insulator, and house a bearing that lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When they’re in good nick, steering feels light and consistent, the cabin stays quiet over bumps, and alignment angles are held steady for predictable handling and even tyre wear.

As they age, rubber can perish and the bearing can get dry or notchy. Common giveaways include clunks over sharp bumps, a creak from under the bonnet at low speeds, steering that binds or “sticks” off centre, and feathered or uneven front tyre wear.

For servicing, a sensible plan is to have the front strut mounts inspected at each service or at least every 20,000 km. Look for split or collapsed rubber, rust or separation around the top hat, and any vertical play while the suspension is unloaded. If the front struts are being replaced, it’s smart money to do the mounts at the same time and always in pairs, left and right. Go for quality OE or reputable aftermarket units that include the bearing – it’s the bit that keeps steering feel silky.

After any front strut or mount work, a full wheel alignment is a must. On reassembly, follow the workshop manual torque specs for the top nut and tower fasteners, and check the condition of the dust boots and bump stops while you’re there. If the Exiga shows persistent front‑end noises even with fresh mounts, also inspect sway bar links, control arm bushes and front top hats for wear – knocking isn’t always from a single culprit.

• Inspect: every service or ~20,000 km
• Replace: with struts or when noisy/notchy, always in pairs
• Afterwards: get a proper wheel alignment

Popular questions about 2008 Subaru Exiga strut mounts

Do both ends of the 2008 Exiga have strut mounts?
No – the front uses MacPherson struts with strut mounts and bearings. The rear is a double‑wishbone design with separate shock and spring, so it uses an upper shock mount, not a front‑style strut mount.

How long do Exiga front strut mounts usually last?
There’s no fixed interval, but many last 100,000–150,000 kilometres depending on roads and load. Replace them if there’s clunking, notchy steering, visible rubber damage, or when fitting new front struts.

What symptoms point to worn strut mounts on an Exiga?
Listen and feel for clunks over bumps, creaks at low speeds, steering that sticks off centre or returns poorly, and uneven front tyre wear. Any of those are a good reason to book an inspection.