Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Exhaust mount

2013 Subaru Forester exhaust-mount: what it does and when to replace it

Exhaust-mounts are absolutely used on the 2013 Subaru Forester (SH series). The Subaru factory service manual for the SH chassis (Exhaust section) details the exhaust system being supported by rubber insulators (hangers) and brackets, and the Subaru genuine parts catalogue for MY2013 Forester lists items such as muffler hangers and exhaust pipe hanger insulators. So, yes—this Forester relies on exhaust-mounts to hold the system in place and keep it quiet.

An exhaust-mount’s job is simple but crucial: support the weight of the front pipe, centre resonator and rear muffler while isolating engine and road vibration from the cabin. The rubber insulators let the pipework move a little as the engine rocks and the car flexes, preventing metal-to-metal knocks, droning, and premature stress cracks. The 2013 Forester—whether the 2.5i or the turbocharged XT—uses multiple mounts along the system, typically around the centre section and at the muffler, with body-side brackets for attachment.

Because they live under the car, exhaust-mounts cop heat, road grime, and in coastal Australia and New Zealand, a fair bit of salt air. Over time the rubber can harden, crack or stretch, and brackets can corrode. Forester owners often first notice a rattle on start-up, a clunk over speed bumps, or a tailpipe sitting off-centre when a mount is tired.

• Signs a mount needs attention:
  • Rattles or thuds near the rear when taking off or shutting down
  • Exhaust sitting low or skewed in the bumper cut-out
  • Visible cracks, hardening, or elongated holes in the rubber
  • Rusty or loose hanger brackets
• Service tips:
  • Inspect mounts at regular services or every 20,000–30,000 km
  • Support the exhaust before removal, work on a cool system
  • Use silicone spray to slip rubbers off and on the pegs
  • Replace stretched or cracked insulators, consider doing pairs
  • Check bracket hardware and clearances after refit

Quality OEM-style rubber insulators are a safe bet for daily duty, stiffer aftermarket options can help on XT models, cars that tow, or those seeing rough roads. Labour is typically 15–45 minutes per mount, so it’s an easy add-on during a routine service. After replacement, it’s smart to re-check alignment and clearances (heat shields, sway bar, bumper) and listen for any new contact points over the first 100 km.

Popular questions

How many exhaust-mounts are on a 2013 Forester?
It varies with engine and trim, but expect several rubber hangers supporting the centre pipe/resonator and the rear muffler, plus associated brackets. The muffler alone commonly uses two insulators.

Can universal exhaust-mounts be used?
Yes, provided the hole size, thickness and spacing match the Forester’s pegs and brackets, and the rubber is heat-rated. Many owners still prefer genuine-style mounts for fit and durability.

How often should exhaust-mounts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. In local conditions, 5–10 years is typical, but vehicles that tow, see corrugations, or live near the coast may need mounts sooner. Inspect at each service and replace on condition.