Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Ball joints

2013 Subaru Forester Ball Joints

Ball joints are absolutely relevant on the 2013 Subaru Forester (SH). Technical references including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY13 Forester (Front Suspension section: front lower ball joint removal/installation) and the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC, Group 20 – Suspension/Steering, front lower ball joint listed with VIN‑dependent 20206A‑series part numbers) confirm the vehicle uses front lower ball joints at the control arm–knuckle connection. The rear is a multi‑link setup using bushes rather than conventional ball joints.

On this Forester, the front lower ball joints act as the pivot between the steering knuckle and the lower control arm. They let the front wheels turn and move up and down smoothly over bumps while keeping tyre contact stable. When they’re in good nick, steering feels tight and confident, when they’re worn, the front end can feel loose, noisy, and hard on tyres.

During routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the ball joint boots and check for play. They’re sealed, non‑greaseable units, so once a boot tears and grit gets in, wear accelerates. A quick visual under the car—looking for split boots, rust dust, or grease flung around the hub—plus a hands‑on check for movement with the wheel lifted can pick up early issues.

• Common signs they’re on the way out:
  • Clunks over speed bumps or rough roads
  • Steering wander or vague on‑centre feel
  • Uneven or rapid inner/outer tyre wear
  • Torn boots or visible corrosion at the joint

If replacement’s needed, it’s typically done per side, but doing both fronts together can save time and an extra alignment. The job involves removing the pinch bolt at the knuckle, separating the tapered stud, and pressing/swapping the joint in the control arm or knuckle as designed. Reuse of single‑use hardware isn’t recommended, follow the Subaru torque specs and any replace‑if‑removed notes in the service manual. Protect the ABS sensor lead and brake hose during the work, and book an alignment afterwards to keep tyre wear even and steering straight.

For most Aussie and Kiwi driving, a quick check every service or 10,000–15,000 km keeps things sweet. Choose quality OEM‑equivalent joints, and the Forester’s front end will stay quiet, tight, and safe.

Popular questions

Does a 2013 Subaru Forester have ball joints front and rear?
Yes—front lower ball joints are fitted on the 2013 Forester (SH) at the control arm–knuckle connection. The rear suspension uses multi‑link arms with bushes rather than conventional ball joints.

How long do Forester ball joints usually last?
With normal road use, they often see well over 100,000 km. Harsh roads, lifted suspension, or torn boots can shorten life. Regular inspections during servicing help catch wear early and protect tyres.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing ball joints?
Yes. Any work that disturbs the knuckle or control arm should be followed by a professional alignment to keep steering feel crisp and tyre wear even.