Parts for your 2009 Subaru Tribeca-Strut mounts

2009 Subaru Tribeca strut mounts — what they do and when to replace

Strut mounts are absolutely fitted to the front of the 2009 Subaru Tribeca. Technical references including the Subaru Tribeca Factory Service Manual (2008–2010, Front Suspension/FS section) and Subaru’s FAST electronic parts catalogue confirm a MacPherson front strut assembly that uses an upper strut mount with an integrated bearing. Major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., KYB and Monroe) also list front strut mounts for this model. The rear of the Tribeca uses a double-wishbone layout with a separate shock absorber and top insulator rather than a steering strut, so when people say “strut mounts” on this vehicle they’re talking about the front axle.

On the Tribeca, the front strut mounts do three key jobs: they isolate road noise and vibration from the cabin, they support the vehicle’s weight at the top of the strut, and the built-in bearing lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. Healthy mounts help the SUV track straight, steer cleanly, and keep alignment angles where they should be.

• Signs they’re tired: clunks or creaks over bumps, a “memory steer” feeling where the wheel doesn’t self-centre properly, vibration through the wheel, vague turn-in, or uneven tyre wear.
• Visual clues: perished or cracked rubber, or a tilted top hat when the front is unloaded.

There’s no periodic replacement interval, but it’s smart to inspect the mounts whenever the front struts are out, at each alignment, or about every 20,000–30,000 kilometres if the Tribeca sees rough roads. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions (heat, corrugations, potholes), many owners find mounts and bearings are due somewhere between 120,000 and 180,000 kilometres, sometimes earlier if the vehicle tows or is heavily loaded.

1. Replace in pairs across the front to keep steering feel consistent.
2. Use quality mounts with new top nuts, consider fresh dust boots and bump stops while you’re in there.
3. Mind the top mount orientation marks, the bearing must face the correct way.
4. Follow the workshop manual for torque specs and always get a wheel alignment after refitting.
5. If tackling it at home, use a proper spring compressor and eye protection — compressed springs can be dangerous.

If noises seem to come from the back, remember the Tribeca’s rear has shock absorber top insulators rather than front-style strut mounts. Those rear mounts can wear too, but they don’t contain a steering bearing.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Tribeca strut mounts

Do the rear suspension components use strut mounts like the front?
The rear of the 2009 Tribeca is a double-wishbone setup with a separate shock and coil, so it uses a shock top insulator rather than a front-style strut mount with a bearing. The “strut mount” term applies to the front axle on this model.

Should the mounts be replaced whenever the front struts are changed?
It’s strongly recommended. Labour overlaps heavily, and worn mounts or bearings can spoil new struts with clunks or sticky steering. Replacing mounts and bearings with the struts helps protect the new gear and saves a second alignment later.

How long does the job take?
Expect roughly 1.5–2.5 hours per front side depending on equipment and corrosion. A workshop will also carry out an alignment once everything is torqued to spec.