Parts for your 2009 Subaru Exiga-Struts

2009 Subaru Exiga (YA) — Struts: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Based on technical references — including the Subaru Exiga (YA-series) Chassis/Workshop Manual (Suspension section) and Subaru’s global electronic parts catalogue — the 2009 Exiga runs a MacPherson strut front suspension with a double‑wishbone rear. That means “struts” apply to the front end only, while the rear uses separate shocks and springs.

Up front, the struts are the heart of the Exiga’s steering and ride. A MacPherson strut combines a shock absorber, coil spring and top mount into one assembly that locates the wheel, controls body movement and soaks up bumps. On the 2009 Exiga, healthy front struts keep the seven-seater composed on bumpy Kiwi or Aussie roads, sharpen steering feel and help tyres wear evenly.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the front struts inspected every 20,000–30,000 km. A technician will look for oil seepage, worn top mounts/bearings, damaged boots and uneven tyre wear. Around 80,000–120,000 km (earlier if it tows, carries full loads or lives on rough chipseal), many Exigas benefit from new struts and mounts to bring back that tidy, settled ride.

Tell-tale signs the struts are tired include:

• Nose-diving under brakes or a floaty, bouncy feel over corrugations
• Clunks or creaks when turning, especially from the top mounts
• Wandering steering, longer braking distances or tramlining
• Uneven front tyre wear or cupping
• Visible oil on the strut body or split dust boots

Best practice is to replace struts in axle pairs and renew the upper mounts and bearings at the same time. Quality aftermarket or genuine assemblies both work well, the key is matching left/right components and spring rates for the YA Exiga. After any strut work, a full wheel alignment is essential to reset camber/caster and keep tyres happy.

DIYers should note the front coils are under serious tension — a proper spring compressor and torque specs from the workshop manual are non‑negotiable. Many owners opt for complete loaded strut assemblies to simplify the job. Whether commuting or hauling the whānau on holidays, fresh front struts make the Exiga feel safer, quieter and more confident, especially on wet roads and long motorway runs.

FAQs

Does the 2009 Subaru Exiga have struts or shocks?
The Exiga uses MacPherson struts at the front and a double‑wishbone setup with separate shocks at the rear. So “struts” refers to the front only, while the rear has conventional shock absorbers.

How often should front struts be replaced on a 2009 Exiga?
There’s no fixed expiry, but many need replacement between 80,000 and 120,000 km depending on roads and load. Inspect at each service, leaks, poor ride control, or uneven tyre wear are cues to replace sooner.

Do front struts require an alignment after replacement?
Yes. Replacing struts can alter camber and caster. A post‑fitment wheel alignment protects tyres and restores proper steering feel and braking stability.