Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2013 Subaru Forester: Purpose and Maintenance Tips

The 2013 Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its reliable performance and comfortable ride quality, especially when handling rough roads or off-road conditions. One often overlooked component that plays a crucial role in maintaining the vehicle's suspension integrity is the bump-stop. Bump-stops, also sometimes referred to as jounce bumpers, are small but vital parts of the suspension system that help protect both the suspension and chassis from damage.

On the 2013 Subaru Forester, bump-stops are indeed fitted as part of the suspension design. They act as a cushioning mechanism to control how much the suspension can compress under heavy loads or when the vehicle encounters large bumps, potholes, or rough terrain. Without bump-stops, the suspension components could bottom out and experience metal-to-metal contact. This can lead to accelerated wear and potential damage to costly parts such as shocks, struts, control arms, or even the vehicle's frame.

Typically, the bump-stops on the Forester are made from a durable rubber or polyurethane material. They are mounted on or near the suspension struts or control arms and compress when the suspension reaches its maximum travel. This prevents the suspension arm from hitting the strut tower or chassis harshly, which not only protects the mechanical parts but also reduces the sharpness of impacts felt inside the cabin.

One of the reasons bump-stops are essential on the 2013 Forester is because of the vehicle's moderately high ground clearance and suspension travel, designed to provide better off-road ability and comfort. When driving over rough trails or deep potholes, the bump-stops serve as a final buffer, preventing structural damage and helping the suspension components last much longer.

Maintaining bump-stops on a 2013 Subaru Forester is a small but important part of overall suspension servicing. Because they are made of rubber or other flexible materials, bump-stops can degrade over time due to exposure to the elements - think heat, moisture, dirt and road grime. Over years of use, they can crack, split or lose their resilience, which reduces their ability to cushion impacts.

It is advisable to inspect bump-stops during a routine suspension service or wheel alignment check. A technician will generally look for:

• Cracks, tears or visible damage in the rubber or polyurethane material
• Signs of excessive compression or deformation, which indicates the bump-stops are worn out
• Presence of dirt and debris that may cause premature wear or inhibit proper function

If a bump-stop is found to be damaged or excessively worn, it's a good idea to replace it. Replacing bump-stops is generally straightforward and inexpensive compared to the cost of repairing worn suspension components that could result from ignoring worn bump-stops.

Ignoring bump-stop maintenance on the Forester can lead to several issues, including increased noise when hitting bumps, harsher ride quality, and ultimately, damage to shock absorbers or struts. Worn bump-stops also reduce the vehicle's ability to absorb large impacts safely, which may impact handling and safety.

For those servicing their own 2013 Subaru Forester, it is possible to check the bump-stops visually by removing the wheel and inspecting the suspension strut area. Look for the small rubber or polyurethane components that sit on top of or near the strut. If unsure, getting a professional mechanic to perform a detailed suspension inspection during regular servicing is well worth it.

In general car maintenance terms, bump-stops don't require frequent replacement unless damaged or degraded. They usually last many years under normal driving conditions. Still, regular visual checks every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometres or during strut replacement are good practice to ensure they are doing their job properly.

When replacing bump-stops, it is important to source parts that meet or exceed Subaru's specifications. Genuine or high-quality aftermarket bump-stops are made from materials that balance durability and flexibility. Cheaper alternatives may wear out much faster or fail prematurely, leading to costly repairs down the track.

In short, for the 2013 Subaru Forester, bump-stops might be small and understated, but they are certainly part of the suspension setup. They help protect the vehicle's suspension components, contribute to a smooth ride, and safeguard the chassis during heavy impacts. Including bump-stop inspection and replacement as part of a regular servicing routine is a smart way to keep the Forester in top shape and ensure it continues to handle well, whether on city streets or rough bush trails.