Parts for your 2012 Subaru Exiga-Bump stops

Bump Stops on the 2012 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

The 2012 Subaru Exiga is a versatile family wagon built on Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive platform, designed for comfort, safety, and practicality. When diving under the vehicle or inspecting the suspension components, you might wonder about the presence and purpose of bump stops. Are bump stops fitted to this model, and if so, what role do they play? Let's unpack what bump stops are, their importance in the Exiga's suspension system, and tips on maintaining or replacing them.

First off, bump stops are small but essential rubber or polyurethane components located within the suspension assembly. Their main function is to prevent the suspension from fully compressing and potentially causing damage to other parts. Essentially, when the vehicle hits a large bump or pothole, the suspension can compress sharply. Without bump stops, metal components like the strut or control arms may slam into the car's chassis or each other, leading to damage. Bump stops act as a cushion or buffer, absorbing this impact and protecting the mechanical parts.

On the 2012 Subaru Exiga, bump stops are indeed included as part of the suspension setup. Subaru equips the Exiga with MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both systems which typically use bump stops to safeguard against bottoming out the suspension. This not only helps to prolong the life of various suspension components but also contributes to improved ride comfort by softening impacts and vibrations transmitted through rough roads.

Why are bump stops important for the Exiga? As a family-oriented vehicle often carrying several passengers and luggage, the car's weight changes dynamically. Loading the vehicle to capacity means the suspension compresses more under the extra weight, increasing the chances of a hard bump or sharp road irregularity pushing the suspension to its limits. Bump stops ensure that even with maximum load, suspension components avoid harsh contact, preventing costly repairs and maintaining handling stability.

Replacing or checking the bump stops on a Subaru Exiga during routine servicing is a smart move but is often overlooked. Over time, these rubber components can degrade, crack, or compress and lose their effectiveness. Driving frequently on rough or unsealed roads - which is quite common in Australia - accelerates this wear. Worn bump stops may lead to a harsher ride and a higher risk of suspension damage if the vehicle encounters a large pothole or similar obstacle.

When servicing the 2012 Subaru Exiga's suspension, mechanics or owners should heed these key points regarding bump stops:

• Inspect visually for signs of cracking, splitting, or flattening. Rubber bump stops that have become brittle or misshapen should be replaced to maintain their protective properties.
• Check for any unusual noises from the suspension while driving, such as clunks or bangs, which may indicate a failing or missing bump stop.
• Replacement bump stops should match Subaru's specifications to ensure proper fit and material quality. Using sub-standard parts may compromise the suspension's performance.
• Consider the driving conditions the Exiga regularly faces, and if the vehicle often carries heavy loads or traverses rough terrain, bump stop inspection should be part of every service interval.
• Professional installation is recommended, especially since bump stops are located inside the strut assembly or suspension arms, which can be tricky to access and require specific tools.

Regular bump stop maintenance pays off by helping to maintain the ride quality the Subaru Exiga owners expect. When bump stops are in good condition, the suspension operates within its designed travel range without sudden metal-to-metal impacts that can jar passengers and damage components. This contributes not only to passenger comfort but also extends the life of shock absorbers, springs, and control arms.

On that note, having the bump stops replaced if needed is relatively affordable compared to the cost of repairing shocks or struts damaged by bottoming out. The material itself is quite durable but simply breaks down over time due to exposure to elements like heat, moisture, and dirt that vehicles commonly encounter. Given the Exiga's purpose as a family car, it is crucial to keep all suspension parts performing well to ensure stability and safety.

In everyday terms, think of bump stops as the Exiga's suspension safety net. They might be small and often unseen, but without them, the suspension's range of movement could cause more harm than good. Regular attention to these components safeguards the suspension system and helps the car maintain its smooth, stable ride across the diverse Australian driving conditions.

So whenever the 2012 Subaru Exiga is due for a service or if there are signs of a rough ride, having a qualified mechanic check the bump stops is a wise step. Keeping an eye - or ear - out for any early signs of bump stop wear can save money and hassle down the track, ensuring this practical wagon remains comfortable and reliable for all those family outings and everyday drives.