Parts for your 2012 Subaru Legacy-Bump stops

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

The 2012 Subaru Legacy, a popular mid-size sedan and wagon, is designed with a suspension system that aims to balance comfort, safety and control. One component worth paying attention to when it comes to suspension is the bump-stop. So, what exactly are bump-stops and do they feature on the 2012 Subaru Legacy? The answer is yes - bump-stops are an important part of the Legacy's suspension setup.

Bump-stops, also known as jounce bumpers, are small but vital components usually made from rubber or polyurethane positioned on the suspension. Their main job is to prevent the suspension from compressing too far and causing damage by stopping metal components from coming into contact. They act as a cushion when you hit a pothole, drive over rough terrain or encounter a large bump, protecting both the shock absorbers and the vehicle's chassis from excessive impact.

On the 2012 Subaru Legacy, bump-stops are typically found near the top of the suspension struts or on the control arms. These bump-stops serve a few key purposes:

• Limit suspension travel to prevent metal-on-metal contact.
• Reduce noise, vibration and harshness inside the cabin when hitting big bumps.
• Protect shocks and springs from damage during hard impacts.
• Help maintain ride quality and control by cushioning the suspension's limits.

Given the Legacy's suspension design - which usually uses MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear - bump-stops are essential to safeguard the integrity of these components over the vehicle's life. Their presence is especially important on a family car like the Subaru Legacy that might regularly carry passengers and luggage, adding weight and stress to the suspension system.

Now, when it comes to maintenance and replacement, bump-stops can sometimes be overlooked because they don't wear out as quickly as other suspension parts like shocks or bushings. However, ignoring them isn't a good idea. Over time, bump-stops can degrade, crack or become squished from repeated impacts, especially if the car frequently encounters rough roads or off-road conditions. Old or damaged bump-stops won't absorb shocks effectively, which means the shocks and struts can suffer more severe damage.

So, how can owners of a 2012 Subaru Legacy look after their bump-stops? Here are some practical tips:

• During routine suspension inspections, mechanics should visually check the bump-stops for signs of cracking, brittleness or deformation.
• Replace bump-stops if they look worn or damaged - they are generally inexpensive parts and easy to swap out.
• If you frequently drive on rough or uneven roads, consider checking bump-stops more often to catch wear early.
• When replacing shocks or struts, it's a good opportunity to also inspect bump-stops since they work closely together.
• Keep an eye out for any unusual noises like clunking or banging from the suspension, which could indicate failing bump-stops.

Replacing bump-stops doesn't require any special tools and can usually be done relatively quickly by a professional or skilled DIYer. Installing fresh bump-stops can significantly help maintain the Legacy's smooth ride and protect its suspension components. It is worth remembering that neglecting bump-stops could lead to expensive repairs, such as shock absorber damage or suspension misalignment, which impact safety and driving comfort.

In essence, the bump-stops on the 2012 Subaru Legacy play the quiet but crucial role of acting as the suspension's safety net. They help protect expensive parts, reduce cabin noise and improve overall ride quality. While often forgotten, regular checks and timely replacement of these parts form a smart part of any Legacy servicing routine. Taking care of them helps ensure the car remains as comfortable and safe as the day it left the showroom.