Parts for your 2012 Subaru Forester-Struts

2012 Subaru Forester struts

Yes, the 2012 Subaru Forester runs MacPherson struts up front, while the rear uses a separate shock on a double‑wishbone arm, not a rear strut. This layout is confirmed in the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2012 Forester (SH series) under “Front Suspension – MacPherson Type” and “Rear Suspension – Double Wishbone”, and echoed by parts catalogues from Subaru, KYB and Monroe that list complete front strut assemblies for the 2012 Forester.

Up front, the strut does double duty: it’s the shock absorber that controls rebound and compression, and it’s a structural member that locates the wheel, holds the spring, and keeps alignment steady. That’s why tired struts can make the Forester feel floaty over corrugations, crashy on potholes, or vague in quick lane changes. Healthy struts help tyres stay planted, shorten braking distances on rough roads, and keep steering feel consistent daily.

Replacement timing depends on use, but many owners in Australia and New Zealand notice a decline around 80,000–150,000 km, sooner if the car sees gravel, towing, or heavy loads. Telltales include oily misting on the strut body, clunks over bumps, nose‑dive under brakes, tramlining, or scalloped tyre wear. If the rear feels loose, remember it runs conventional shocks, not struts, so diagnosis and parts selection differ at the back.

When replacing front struts, do them in axle pairs and budget for new strut mounts, dust boots and bump stops, front sway‑bar links or lower control arm bushes may also be due. Springs can often be re‑used if serviceable, or upgraded coils can suit touring. Always get a wheel alignment afterwards, as camber and toe can shift during the job. Torque angles matter, so follow workshop specs.

Day‑to‑day care is simple: keep tyres correctly inflated, rotate on schedule, and have a technician inspect for leaks, torn boots and perished bushes at each service. A quick bounce test and a careful drive over speed humps and corrugations will reveal a lot. Replacing tired struts transforms how the Forester steers, rides and stops, restoring everyday confidence whether commuting, carrying the family, or heading away down a rutted fire trail.

Does the 2012 Subaru Forester have struts in the rear as well?

No. The front uses MacPherson struts, while the rear runs a double‑wishbone setup with separate shocks and coils. That’s how Subaru engineered the SH‑series Forester, as outlined in the factory service literature and reflected in major parts catalogues.

How often should the front struts be replaced on a 2012 Forester?

There’s no fixed interval. Have them checked from about 60,000 km. Many Foresters in Australia and New Zealand need fronts somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km, earlier with rough roads, towing or heavy loads. Replace when they’re leaking, noisy, or the ride and braking have gone off, and align it afterwards.

Is it okay to drive with worn front struts?

It’ll still get around, but stopping distances can grow, tyres may wear unevenly, and emergency manoeuvres feel sketchy. Best bet is to plan prompt replacement and have related items like top mounts and sway‑bar links inspected at the same time.