Parts for your 2009 Subaru Outback-Control arms

2009 Subaru Outback control arms — what they do and when to replace them

Control arms are absolutely used on the 2009 Subaru Outback. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2009 Legacy/Outback (Chassis: Front and Rear Suspension) specifies a MacPherson-strut front end with a lower control arm (also called the front transverse link), and a rear double-wishbone layout that uses multiple control arms (lateral links and a trailing arm). The Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue for this model lists these components by name and part number, confirming their fitment on all 2009 Outback variants.

On this Outback, the control arms connect the wheel hubs to the body, keeping geometry in check as the suspension moves. They manage camber and caster, let the struts and knuckles pivot smoothly via ball joints, and soak up harshness through rubber or hydraulic bushes. Healthy arms and bushes mean straighter tracking, quieter rides and even tyre wear — a big deal for long Kiwi or Aussie road trips.

Owners should think of control-arm checks as part of normal servicing. Every 10,000–20,000 km, inspect for torn or oil-soaked bushes, cracked rubber, perished ball-joint boots, and any bends or corrosion (coastal cars deserve an extra-close look). Tell-tales of wear include clunks over bumps, wandering or tramlining, shimmy under braking, uneven tyre wear, and a steering wheel that won’t sit dead straight.

If replacement’s on the cards, doing both sides across the same axle keeps handling balanced. Always book a wheel alignment afterwards. On installation, torque the pivot bolts with the car at normal ride height to avoid preloading the new bushes. Fresh hardware for the ball-joint pinch bolt is wise, and a dab of anti-seize on threads exposed to road spray helps in Aussie outback and NZ coastal conditions.

Whether choosing genuine Subaru arms or quality aftermarket assemblies, look for OE-style rubber or hydro bushes for comfort, or consider heavy-duty bush options if the Outback spends time on corrugated roads. Labour typically runs 1.5–3.0 hours per side depending on corrosion and seized bolts. Done right, new arms restore crisp steering feel and protect those tyres from premature wear.

• Watch for: clunks, uneven tyre wear, wandering, vibration when braking.
• Service tip: inspect bushes and ball-joint boots at each service interval.
• After replacement: always get an alignment and retorque at ride height.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Outback control arms

Do the 2009 Outback’s rear wheels use control arms too?
Yes. The rear suspension is a double-wishbone design that uses multiple control arms (lateral links) and a trailing arm per side. They locate the hub, control camber and toe, and work with the shocks and springs to keep the rear planted.

How long do control-arm bushes typically last on this model?
It varies with driving and road conditions, but many owners see 80,000–150,000 km before noticeable wear. Lots of gravel, corrugations, potholes or heavy loads can shorten that interval. Regular inspections catch early tearing or cracking.

Is it safe to drive with a worn control-arm ball joint?
Not recommended. A loose or torn-ball-joint boot can lead to play and, in severe cases, joint failure. That risks sudden loss of steering control. If there’s knocking, wandering or visible damage, park it and book an inspection.