Parts for your 2008 Subaru Forester-Exhaust mount

2008 Subaru Forester exhaust mount

Yes, the 2008 Subaru Forester uses exhaust mounts (also called hangers or rubber insulators). This is confirmed by technical sources including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2008MY Forester (Exhaust System section), the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue under Group 44 – Exhaust, and AU/NZ parts catalogues (e.g., Mackay Rubber) that list dedicated exhaust mounting insulators for this model.

On the Forester, these rubber mounts suspend the exhaust under the car, isolating vibration from the boxer engine and road impacts so the cabin stays civil and the pipework maintains correct clearances. They also let the system move slightly as it heats and cools, preventing stress cracks at flanges, the flex joint and the muffler welds.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the exhaust mounts every 10,000–15,000 km, or after off‑road trips, beach runs or towing. Rubber hardens with heat and age, once the insulators crack, split or sag, the tailpipe can sit crooked, rattle on start‑up or knock over bumps. A worn mount can also make the mid‑pipe contact the crossmember or heat shields, creating an annoying drone.

Replacement is straightforward and a good DIY job if the car is safely supported. Support the exhaust with a jack or strap before removing any mounts so weight isn’t hanging on a single point. A spritz of silicone spray helps slide old insulators off the hanger pegs. On a 2008 Forester there are typically several insulators along the system (front/centre section and rear muffler). Check any bracket bolts for corrosion and tighten to spec after refit, then make sure the pipe sits central in its cut‑outs with at least a finger’s clearance to shields and the rear bumper.

Use quality OEM‑equivalent rubber insulators, polyurethane options are available for towing or rough tracks, but they can transmit more vibration into the cabin. Avoid cable ties or wire “fixes” — they don’t flex with heat cycles and can crack the exhaust. If one mount has perished, consider replacing the set so ride height and support are even. A quick dab of silicone grease on the hanger pegs at service time makes the next change easier and helps keep squeaks away.

• Telltales of tired mounts: metallic tapping, exhaust sitting low or skewed, thuds over speed humps, or visible splits in the rubber.
• After muddy or salty drives, rinse the underbody and check mounts and brackets for surface rust.

Popular questions about 2008 Subaru Forester exhaust mounts

How often should the exhaust mounts be replaced on a 2008 Forester?
There isn’t a fixed interval, they’re replaced on condition. Many last well beyond 100,000 km, but heat, towing and off‑road use shorten life. Inspect them at each service. If the rubber is cracked, oil‑soaked, hardened or the exhaust sits off‑centre, it’s time to swap them.

Can firmer polyurethane mounts be used for towing or off‑road?
Yes, stiffer mounts better control exhaust movement on corrugations and when towing. The trade‑off is a bit more vibration and potential cabin noise. For a daily driver, quality rubber is usually the sweet spot, for heavy use, polyurethane can be worthwhile.

Is exhaust mount replacement a DIY job on this model?
Generally yes. With the car safely supported, use silicone spray and a pry tool to slip the insulators off, support the exhaust, then fit new ones. If brackets are badly corroded, or the system needs re‑alignment or welding, a workshop visit is the safer bet.