Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Steering rack

2013 Subaru Forester Steering Rack: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Look After It

Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY2013 Forester (SH series, Steering section), the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue for AU/NZ, and Subaru Technical Information System bulletins, the 2013 Forester uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear. SH models sold through 2013 in Australia and New Zealand have hydraulic power assist, while late-2013 builds of the next-gen SJ introduced electric power steering on some variants. Either way, a steering rack is fitted and absolutely relevant to servicing this vehicle.

The steering rack’s job is to turn the driver’s input at the wheel into precise left-right movement of the front wheels, delivering road feel and straight-line stability. Whether it’s hydraulic or electric assist, the rack-and-pinion setup keeps the Forester feeling planted on back roads, gravel, and the daily commute.

For servicing, it pays to keep an eye on the basics. Hydraulic racks need the correct Subaru-specified power steering fluid, clean hoses, and dry seals. At each service, check the rack boots for splits, the inner tie rods for play, and the pump and lines for weeps. If the fluid looks dark or aerated, have it flushed and bled properly. Electric racks don’t have fluid, but they still need boot and tie rod inspections, plus checks for free play and any fault codes or steering angle issues.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech but it’s not a DIY kerbside job. Good practice is to fit a quality new or remanufactured rack that includes inner tie rods and new boots. On hydraulic systems, replace O-rings/banjo washers, flush the lines, and bleed the system. On EPS-equipped models, the rack must be centred, and a steering angle sensor reset or calibration may be required using a scan tool. Always finish with a proper wheel alignment.

Tell-tales that the rack may be due include heavy or uneven steering, fluid leaks from the boots (hydraulic), a clunk over bumps, off-centre steering, or uneven tyre wear. With Aussie and Kiwi roads in mind—think corrugations, potholes, and the odd kerb strike—request a steering check at every service interval (around 10,000–15,000 km), and especially after suspension or wheel impacts.

• Watch for leaks, split boots, and steering play
• Use the correct fluid (hydraulic) and bleed properly
• Centre the rack and reset steering angle (EPS)
• Always perform a wheel alignment after rack work

Does a 2013 Forester have hydraulic or electric power steering?

Most 2013 SH-series Foresters in Australia and New Zealand use hydraulic power steering. Late-2013 builds of the next-gen SJ introduced electric power steering on some variants. Both systems still use a rack-and-pinion steering rack, so the part remains applicable.

How long should a steering rack last, and what are the warning signs?

It’s common for a rack to last well past 150,000 km, and many go beyond 300,000 km with sensible driving and regular servicing. Warning signs include fluid leaks from the rack boots (hydraulic), heavy or notchy steering, a clunk on bumps, wandering on the motorway, or uneven tyre wear.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing a steering rack?

Yes. Any time a rack is replaced or inner tie rods are disturbed, a full alignment is required. On EPS models, a steering angle sensor reset or calibration is also recommended to keep driver assists and stability systems happy.