Parts for your 2009 Subaru Exiga-Control arms

2009 Subaru Exiga Control Arms

Based on Subaru’s own technical references—the Exiga (YA series) service manual Front Suspension section and the Subaru FAST/EPC parts catalogue—the 2009 Subaru Exiga is fitted with control arms. Up front it runs a MacPherson strut layout with a lower control arm (often called a transverse link), and at the rear it uses a multi‑link/double‑wishbone arrangement with control arms/lateral links. So yes, control arms are absolutely relevant on this model.

On the 2009 Exiga, the control arms keep each wheel located precisely while letting the suspension move up and down freely. They set key alignment angles like caster and camber, help the car track straight, and contribute to that planted Subaru feel in the wet. Rubber or hydraulic bushes in the arms soak up vibration and road harshness, while the ball joint provides a smooth pivot for steering and suspension movement.

As part of regular servicing, it pays to have the control arm bushes and ball joints inspected—especially every 20,000 km or so, or sooner if the Exiga sees rough roads, towing, or fully‑loaded family trips. Typical signs they’re on the way out include:

• Clunks over bumps, vague steering, or a shimmy under braking
• Uneven or rapid tyre wear and the car pulling to one side
• Torn or oil‑soaked bushes, split ball joint boots, or visible corrosion

There’s no strict replacement interval, but many owners see wear anywhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km depending on conditions. When replacement time comes, there are two common paths: press in new bushes/ball joints, or fit complete arm assemblies. Pressing bushes keeps costs tight but needs proper tools and technique, complete arms save time and usually include a fresh ball joint, which is handy if the old one’s questionable.

Best practice on the Exiga is to replace control arms or bushes in pairs (left and right), torque all fasteners at normal ride height to avoid twisting the bushes, and organise a full wheel alignment straight after. While you’re there, it’s smart to check sway bar links, tie‑rod ends, and strut tops so the front and rear ends are sorted in one go. Quality aftermarket arms are fine for daily duty, but genuine Subaru components remain a safe bet for OE fit and feel. Keep tyres inflated and balanced, avoid kerb strikes, and those fresh control arms will go the distance with no dramas.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Exiga control arms

How long do the control arm bushes last on a 2009 Exiga?
Lifespan varies with driving and climate, but many Exiga owners see 80,000–150,000 km before noticeable wear. Lots of stop‑start city work, gravel roads, or big temperature swings can bring that forward. Regular inspections during scheduled servicing help catch issues before they chew out tyres.

Can just the bushes or ball joint be replaced, or do the whole arms need doing?
Both approaches work. If the arm itself isn’t bent or rusty, pressing in new bushes and a ball joint is economical—just needs the right press tools. Complete arms are quicker to fit and restore everything in one shot. Either way, a wheel alignment afterwards is a must.

Do you need an alignment after replacing control arms?
Yes—every time. Changing arms or bushes alters caster, camber and toe. A proper alignment restores straight‑line stability, even tyre wear, and that tidy Subaru steering feel.