Parts for your 2013 Subaru Exiga-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2013 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2013 Subaru Exiga, a spacious and practical people mover, the bump-stops might not be the first part that springs to mind, but they play an important role in the vehicle's suspension system. After looking through available technical sources and manuals, it turns out that the 2013 Subaru Exiga is indeed fitted with bump-stops, also known as jounce bumpers. These are small but critical components designed to protect the suspension and improve ride comfort and safety.

So, what exactly are bump-stops and why are they used on your 2013 Subaru Exiga? Bump-stops are usually made from rubber or polyurethane and are positioned on the suspension struts or control arms. Their purpose is to limit the upward travel of the suspension, preventing the metal components from bottoming out and making harsh contact with each other or the chassis. This helps to protect the suspension parts, reduce noise and vibration, and ultimately deliver a smoother driving experience.

In the case of the Exiga, the bump-stops act as a safety cushion when the vehicle hits a large bump or pothole, or during heavy load conditions when the suspension compression is at its maximum. Without bump-stops, the suspension components could slam into their mechanical limits, leading to premature wear, damage, and an uncomfortable ride. Bump-stops also contribute to maintaining the proper handling characteristics of the Exiga, which is particularly important for a multi-purpose vehicle carrying family or cargo.

Over time, these bump-stops can degrade. Constant exposure to road grime, heat, and compression forces causes the rubber or polyurethane material to harden, crack or become misshapen. Once this happens, the bump-stops lose their effectiveness, meaning the suspension components are no longer cushioned as intended. This could result in a harsher ride, increased noise, and potential damage to vital suspension parts such as shock absorbers and struts.

So, what should you look for during maintenance and servicing of your 2013 Subaru Exiga's bump-stops? A visual inspection is a good first step. Mechanics typically check the bump-stops for signs of wear such as cracks, splits, or pieces missing. They also look for deformation that might have occurred if the bump-stop has been compressed excessively or stored in a compressed state. If any of these signs are evident, it is a good idea to replace the bump-stops to maintain the integrity of the suspension system.

Replacing bump-stops is generally straightforward and not overly expensive, especially when done during routine suspension servicing. It's advisable to replace both front and rear bump-stops at the same time to keep the suspension balanced. Subaru dealerships and specialist mechanics that know the Exiga well will use OEM parts to ensure the bump-stops fit perfectly and perform as intended.

Ignoring bump-stop wear can lead to costly repairs down the track. For instance, if worn or missing bump-stops allow the suspension to bottom out harshly, this can damage shock absorbers or struts, which are usually more expensive parts to replace. Additionally, persistent bottoming out can negatively affect the car's handling, which may impact safety, especially in emergency manoeuvres or heavy load driving.

Also, from a ride quality perspective, a healthy bump-stop helps you avoid those sudden jolts when hitting large bumps or dips in the road. This cushioning effect is subtle but important for keeping the journey comfortable, which is exactly what you'd want from a vehicle designed for family trips and longer drives like the Subaru Exiga.

Routine suspension inspections, including bump-stop assessment, should be part of regular servicing schedules recommended by Subaru, often every 15,000 to 20,000 kilometres, or as advised in the owner's manual. This ensures any potential issues are caught early, keeping the suspension in top shape and preventing unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs.

In short, while bump-stops might seem like small and insignificant parts, they have an important protective role on the 2013 Subaru Exiga. They safeguard suspension components, enhance ride comfort, and help maintain safe handling characteristics. Regular checks and timely replacement of bump-stops help keep your Exiga running smoothly, giving peace of mind whether you're hauling kids, friends, or luggage around town or on long adventures.