Parts for your 2011 Subaru Forester-Coil springs

2011 Subaru Forester Coil Springs

Coil springs are absolutely used on the 2011 Subaru Forester. Subaru’s 2011 Forester Service Manual (SH chassis) details MacPherson struts with coil springs up front and an independent double-wishbone rear suspension with separate dampers and rear coil springs. The Subaru parts catalogue for the 2011 model year also lists front and rear coil springs as serviceable items, with different rates by trim and engine.

On this Forester, the coil springs carry the vehicle’s weight, keep ride height where it should be, and work with the shocks/struts to control body movement. That balance is what gives the Forester its comfy, sure-footed feel on corrugations, wet roads and the odd gravel detour. Healthy springs help tyres maintain contact with the road, improve braking stability and keep headlight aim consistent at night.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the coil springs checked every 20,000–30,000 kilometres or when any suspension work is done. Look for flaking paint, rust pitting, cracked or broken coils (often at the pigtail ends), and signs of sag like a droopy corner or reduced ground clearance. A tape measure check of ride height side-to-side is an easy tell.

Replacement is recommended if there’s visible damage, a noticeable lean, clunks over bumps, or if the car bottoms out on speed humps. Springs should be replaced in axle pairs to keep handling consistent. It’s also a good time to assess related bits: strut mounts/bearings, insulators, dust boots and bump stops. Matching new springs with fresh dampers can restore that “new car” ride and is often more cost-effective long-term.

After any spring change, a four-wheel alignment is essential—especially on the Forester’s independent rear end—to keep tyre wear even and steering feel tidy. For owners who tow or tour loaded, heavy-duty or slightly raised springs are an option, but stick within legal ride height limits and consider how rates affect comfort. In NZ and Australia, it’s wise to check local rules before making height changes.

• Watch for uneven tyre wear, nose-diving under brakes, and extra body roll.
• Clean off road grime and recoat bare metal to slow corrosion near the coast.
• If you hear a spring “ping” when turning, inspect the strut top mount and spring seat orientation.

Popular questions about 2011 Subaru Forester coil springs

How long do the coil springs typically last?
Many Forester springs last well over 150,000 kilometres, but lifespan depends on load, road conditions and corrosion exposure. Coastal cars or vehicles that regularly carry gear may see earlier wear or sag. Regular inspections can catch issues before they affect handling.

Can the Forester be driven with a broken coil spring?
It’s not recommended. A broken coil can shift in its seat, alter alignment and chew through tyres. It can also damage struts, brake hoses or ABS wiring. If a break is found, park it and organise a pair replacement on the affected axle.

Do new springs require new shocks/struts as well?
Not strictly, but pairing fresh springs with tired dampers won’t deliver the full benefit. If shocks or struts are leaking or the car “floats” after bumps, replace them with the springs. The result is tighter control, better comfort and improved tyre life.