Parts for your 2012 Subaru Outback-Bump stops

Bump Stops on the 2012 Subaru Outback: What They Are and Why They Matter

The 2012 Subaru Outback is well known for its rugged capability and comfort, making it a popular choice for Aussie drivers who need a vehicle that can handle a bit of everything. One important yet often overlooked part of the suspension system on this vehicle is the bump stop. So what exactly are bump stops, and does the 2012 Outback actually use them? Let's break it down.

Bump stops are small but vital components fitted to the suspension system of many vehicles, including the 2012 Subaru Outback. They serve as rubber or polyurethane cushions that prevent the suspension from bottoming out by limiting how far the suspension components can travel. When a vehicle hits a big bump or carries a heavy load, the suspension compresses and if it travels too far, metal parts can collide, causing damage or an uncomfortable ride. Bump stops act as a final cushion, absorbing excess energy and protecting both the suspension and the vehicle's chassis.

On the 2012 Subaru Outback, bump stops are indeed fitted front and back, usually found near the coil springs or struts. They're designed to improve comfort by softening the ride when the suspension nears its compression limits. This is especially handy for an Outback, as the car is often out on rough roads or carrying loads that might cause the suspension to compress further than usual.

Understanding the purpose of bump stops makes it clear why regular maintenance and inspection are important. Like all rubber components, bump stops can wear out over time. They can become brittle, crack, or even tear, which reduces their ability to effectively cushion the suspension at the extreme end of its travel. When bump stops go bad, you may notice a harsher ride, increased noise from suspension travel, or even damage to other suspension parts due to metal-to-metal contact.

For anyone servicing their 2012 Subaru Outback, checking the bump stops is a good idea. A mechanic will typically visually inspect the bump stops for signs of wear or damage and check the suspension movement to ensure the bump stops are functioning as intended. Replacing worn bump stops is usually a straightforward and cost-effective repair. It not only maintains driving comfort but also prevents more expensive damage down the track.

The replacement process often involves removing the strut or shock absorber to access the bump stop, which is mounted on or near the upper part of the suspension assembly. Using genuine Subaru parts or high-quality aftermarket bump stops is recommended, as these components are designed to meet the vehicle's specific requirements and performance standards.

Some do-it-yourselfers also inspect bump stops when upgrading suspension components or fitting new shocks or struts. Since the 2012 Outback has a suspension setup designed to balance road handling and off-road capability, keeping bump stops in good condition ensures the vehicle performs as it should in all conditions.

• Protect suspension components by limiting excessive travel
• Improve ride comfort by cushioning impacts at maximum compression
• Reduce noise and harshness from metal-to-metal contact
• Prevent costly damage to suspension and chassis parts

In everyday terms, bump stops are like the airbags of the suspension system. Just as airbags protect passengers in a car crash, bump stops protect the vehicle's suspension from crashing into itself. Especially on a versatile vehicle such as the Subaru Outback, which is often driven off the beaten track or loaded up for trips, these parts are essential for protecting your investment and maintaining a smooth ride.

Service schedules for the 2012 Outback may not always explicitly list bump stops for replacement unless damage is identified, but it makes sense to have them checked during any suspension or tyre services. If you're noticing a strange clunk or a harsh feeling when driving over potholes or rough terrain, worn bump stops could be the culprit.

So, if someone owns a 2012 Subaru Outback or is thinking about buying one, it's worth remembering that bump stops are small but critical parts of the suspension system. Treating them with the same respect as shocks and springs during servicing keeps the Outback ready for whatever the road - or the bush - throws at it.