Parts for your 2009 Subaru Forester-Engine mount

2009 Subaru Forester engine mount — purpose, care and replacement

Technical sources confirm the 2009 Subaru Forester absolutely uses engine mounts. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the SH-series Forester includes an Engine Mounting section, and the Subaru FAST parts catalogue lists left and right “engine mount (insulator)” plus the upper pitching stopper. Independent workshop manuals also cover mount inspection and replacement for this model. So the engine mount is both relevant and fitted to the 2009 Forester, regardless of trim or transmission.

On this Forester, the engine mounts do the heavy lifting of holding the flat-four in place while soaking up vibration so the cabin stays smooth. Two side mounts support the engine on the crossmember, while the pitch stop up top reins in fore–aft movement under acceleration and braking. When they’re healthy, owners get crisp drivability with minimal shudder. When they’re tired, the car can feel grumbly at idle, thump on take-off, or let the engine rock around more than it should.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but it’s smart to inspect the mounts every 60,000–80,000 km as part of routine servicing. Look for perished or cracked rubber, collapsed height, or (on fluid-filled types) any tell-tale weeping. Typical symptoms include:

• Noticeable vibration at idle once warm
• Clunks when shifting from Park to Drive/Reverse or on throttle tip-in
• Excess engine movement under the bonnet

When replacement’s due, swapping mounts in pairs keeps balance and NVH consistent. Quality OEM or reputable aftermarket units are the go, going stiffer can sharpen response but may add a touch of cabin buzz. A workshop will support the engine from above or below, remove the through-bolts and nuts, lift the engine a whisker, fit the new mounts, then torque everything to the factory specs and check the pitch stop bush. On an SH Forester, expect 2–3 hours depending on access and corrosion. DIYers can handle it with stands, a jack and patience, but must use proper support and follow torque specs from the service manual.

After fitting, a quick road test for vibration and a visual re-check once it’s heat-cycled is good practice. Keeping the exhaust and crossmember mounts in tidy nick helps the new engine mounts last the distance too.

Popular questions

How long do engine mounts last on a 2009 Forester?
With normal driving, they often see 150,000–250,000 km. Heat, oil leaks and rougher roads can shorten that. Regular inspections pick up early ageing before it turns into knocks and shakes.

Can I keep driving if an engine mount has failed?
It’ll usually still drive, but it’s not recommended. Extra movement can stress hoses, CVs and the exhaust, and the car can thump on shifts. It’s safer to get it checked and replaced promptly.

Do I need to replace the pitch stop mount as well?
Not always, but it’s wise to inspect it whenever the side mounts are replaced. If its bush is cracked or sloppy, changing it at the same time keeps engine movement properly controlled.