Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Control arms

2013 Subaru Forester Control Arms

Control arms are absolutely used on the 2013 Subaru Forester. Subaru’s Factory Service Manual (FSM) for the SH-series Forester (MY09–13) lists the “Front Arm” (lower control arm) in the Front Suspension section, and the official Subaru technical information/parts catalogue specifies a complete front lower arm assembly with ball joint and bushes. The rear suspension on this model is a multi‑link/double‑wishbone arrangement that also employs control arms (lateral links and an upper arm). So yes—control arms are relevant and fitted to this vehicle.

On a 2013 Forester, the front lower control arms connect the front hubs to the subframe, keeping wheel alignment stable as the struts move through bumps, braking and cornering. They house rubber bushes to isolate vibration and a ball joint that pivots as the wheels steer. At the rear, the multi‑link setup uses control arms to set camber and toe, managing how the tyres meet the road. The result is straight tracking, predictable steering feel and even tyre wear.

• Common wear points: front control arm bushes, front lower ball joints, and rear lateral link bushes.
• Typical symptoms: clunks over bumps, steering wander, vibration under braking, uneven tyre wear, and vague turn‑in.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect control arms every 20,000 km or 12 months—sooner if the Forester sees corrugations, gravel, towing or regular beach launches. Look for cracked or oil‑soaked bushes, split ball joint boots, excessive rust around mounting points, and ovalled bolt holes.

When replacement time comes, many owners choose complete arm assemblies up front to refresh ball joints and bushes in one go. Quality aftermarket arms or genuine Subaru parts both work—just match left/right and the exact VIN. Replacing in pairs helps keep alignment and braking stability consistent side to side.

A few tips: - Always torque bush bolts at normal ride height so the rubber isn’t preloaded. - Renew any single‑use hardware and camber bolts if corroded. - A full four‑wheel alignment is essential afterwards to set camber and toe, especially on the rear multi‑link. Ignoring sloppy bushes or joints can upset ABS/Vehicle Dynamics Control behaviour and may fail a WOF/roadworthy, so don’t let it drag on.

Popular questions

How long do Forester control arm bushes and ball joints last?
In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, many see 100,000–160,000 km, but rough roads, big potholes or off‑road work can shorten that. Regular inspections catch early cracking, torn boots, or play before they affect tyres and braking.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?
Yes, every time. Changing arms or bushes alters geometry. A four‑wheel alignment brings camber and toe back to spec, preventing uneven tyre wear and restoring straight‑line stability.

What are the signs my 2013 Forester’s control arms need attention?
Listen and feel for clunks over speed humps, steering that tramlines, a pull under braking, or inner/outer shoulder tyre wear. Visual checks often show split ball joint boots or perished bushes.