Parts for your 2012 Subaru Impreza-Exhaust mount

2012 Subaru Impreza exhaust mount (hanger) — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2012 Subaru Impreza uses exhaust mounts (also called exhaust hangers or cushion rubbers). Subaru’s factory Service Manual for the GJ/GP Impreza lists multiple exhaust support points, and the Subaru parts catalogue identifies the “Cushion Rubber–Exhaust” as a service part used to suspend the system from the body. Those technical sources confirm the exhaust-mount is relevant and fitted on this model.

On a 2012 Impreza, these tough rubber mounts isolate the exhaust from the body, keeping the pipework centred and the muffler sitting just right in the bumper cut-out. They soak up engine movement and road bumps so the exhaust doesn’t knock or drone inside the cabin. Over time, heat, road grime, and age can harden or crack the rubber, letting the system sag or shift, which can cause rattles, thumps over bumps, or even stress on joints and gaskets.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect each mount—typically there’ll be a hanger near the front pipe bracket, one mid-pipe, and a couple at the rear muffler on hatch and sedan variants. Look for perished or split rubber, elongated holes, and excessive movement when the tailpipe is wiggled by hand. A quick shot of silicone spray on good mounts keeps them pliable and quiet. If one looks tired, replace it—genuine-style rubber mounts are inexpensive and usually swap over in minutes with the exhaust supported safely.

• Common symptoms: exhaust knock on start-up or over kerbs, muffler sitting low or off-centre, new vibration or boom at certain revs, visible cracks in the rubber.
• Replacement tips: support the exhaust with a jack and wood block, spritz the old mount with penetrant or silicone, then lever it off, refit the new one the same way. Check clearances to the subframe, heat shields, and bumper.
• Service cadence: inspect at every service, many last 80,000–150,000 km, but heat and road salt can shorten that.
• Upgrade options: firmer polyurethane hangers can reduce movement on rough roads or with heavier aftermarket systems, though they may add a touch of NVH.

After any mount replacement, make sure the tips sit even, there’s no contact under load, and all brackets are snug. A quick road test over a few bumps will confirm the exhaust is quiet and properly supported.

Popular questions about 2012 Subaru Impreza exhaust mounts

How many exhaust mounts does a 2012 Impreza have?
Most 2.0i GJ/GP cars run three to five mounts depending on body style and the exact exhaust layout: typically one up front by the support bracket, one mid-pipe, and two at the rear muffler. A quick look under the car will confirm the count on your setup.

Can these mounts be replaced at home without a hoist?
Yes—if the car is safely raised and supported. With the exhaust supported by a jack, a bit of silicone spray and a pry bar or exhaust-hanger pliers usually does the trick. Work on a cool system and double-check tip alignment before tightening any brackets.

What should be used—genuine rubber or aftermarket?
Genuine-style rubber mounts are quiet and compliant, ideal for daily use. Quality aftermarket rubber is fine as long as fitment is correct. If the car carries a heavier exhaust or sees rough roads, firmer polyurethane can reduce movement, but expect a slight increase in vibration.