Parts for your 2011 Subaru Exiga-Strut mounts

2011 Subaru Exiga strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Strut mounts are absolutely relevant to the 2011 Subaru Exiga. Technical references including the Subaru Service Manual for the YA chassis (Front Suspension section), the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue (listing the “Front Strut Mounting” assembly), and major aftermarket catalogues from KYB and Monroe all specify front MacPherson struts with dedicated top mounts and bearings for 2008–2014 Exiga models. The rear of the Exiga uses a multi-link suspension with separate dampers and coil springs, so “strut” mounts in the rear are not the same item, they’re typically referred to as rear shock mounts.

On the Exiga’s front end, the strut mount is the top connection between the body and the strut. It carries vehicle weight, isolates noise and vibration with a rubber insulator, and—importantly—houses a bearing that lets the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns. When the mount or bearing wears, the Exiga can feel crashy over bumps, the steering may get notchy or slow to return to centre, and you might hear clunks from the top of the strut towers.

There’s no set replacement interval because the mount is a sealed unit, but on Aussie and Kiwi roads it’s common to see wear anywhere from 100,000 to 150,000 kilometres, sooner if the car regularly deals with corrugations, potholes, heavy loads or a lot of city kerb hopping. During routine servicing, a quick visual and functional check pays off: look for perished rubber, rust bleed around the centre sleeve, and listen for groans while turning the wheel at a standstill.

• Common signs of a worn front strut mount on an Exiga:
  • Clunking or creaking over speed humps and sharp bumps
  • Notchy steering or poor return to centre
  • Uneven or cupped front tyres and vague turn-in

When replacing, it’s best practice to do mounts in pairs and align the car afterwards. Use new self-locking nuts, seat the spring correctly, and torque everything to the Subaru spec with the suspension at ride height. Many techs replace the strut mounts together with struts, bump stops, dust boots and spring insulators to restore the Exiga’s ride and steering feel in one go. It’s a straightforward way to keep this seven-seater feeling tight, quiet and confidence-inspiring on the school run or a long state-highway trip.

• Workshop tips for the 2011 Exiga:
  • Check the mount bearing for smooth, silent rotation before assembly
  • Inspect sway-bar links and top hats at the same time
  • Always book a wheel alignment after front suspension work

FAQs

Do the 2011 Subaru Exiga’s rear suspension use strut mounts?
The front definitely uses strut mounts with bearings. The rear uses a multi-link setup with separate shock absorbers and springs, so the top pieces are shock mounts rather than “strut” mounts. They can wear too, but they’re a different part.

How long do front strut mounts typically last on an Exiga in Australia or New Zealand?
Many make it to 100,000–150,000 km, but rough roads, heavy loads, towing and lots of speed humps can bring that forward. Go by symptoms and inspection rather than mileage alone.

Can worn strut mounts cause steering vibration or noise?
Yes. A tired mount or bearing can cause creaks when turning at low speed, knocks over bumps, and a notchy feel through the wheel. If it’s pronounced, replace the mounts and re-check alignment.