Parts for your 2013 Subaru Impreza-Ball joints

2013 Subaru Impreza ball-joints — what they do and when to sort them

Ball-joints are absolutely used on the 2013 Subaru Impreza (GP/GJ). The Subaru Factory Service Manual for 2012–2016 Impreza models details a MacPherson strut front suspension with a lower control arm connected to the steering knuckle via a front lower ball joint. Subaru’s genuine parts catalogue likewise lists a serviceable front lower ball joint assembly (commonly referenced in the 20206AJ000 family) for this model. Industry repair manuals echo the same setup, so they’re very much relevant to this car.

On the Impreza, the front lower ball-joints act like a tough little swivel, letting the front wheels steer and move up and down at the same time. They carry a fair chunk of the car’s weight and keep alignment steady, which is why worn joints can make the steering feel vague and the tyres wear oddly. They’re sealed units, so there’s no greasing—just periodic checks and timely replacement when they’re flogged out.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect them every 10,000–15,000 kilometres or at each service. A tech will look for torn dust boots, rust staining, and play at the joint with the wheel off the ground. If the boot’s split and grease has gone walkabout, grit gets in and the joint won’t last long.

• Tell-tale signs: clunks over bumps, steering wander, uneven tyre wear, front-end shimmy, or a knock when braking/turning into driveways.
• Visual flags: split boots, grease leakage, or orange rust lines at the knuckle pinch.

Replacement is straightforward with the right approach: the knuckle’s pinch bolt is removed, the joint is freed from the knuckle, and the stud is released from the lower arm. A quality OEM or equivalent joint is the go. Always torque fasteners to Subaru specs and book a wheel alignment afterwards—any disturbance at the knuckle can nudge camber or toe. Many techs will replace ball-joints in pairs to keep wear even side to side.

How long do they last? Anything from 100,000 to 200,000 km is common, but rough roads, corrugations, coastal salt, and bigger wheels can shorten that. Lowered suspension can also increase joint angles and wear. Regular checks keep it safe and help avoid WOF or roadworthy headaches.

How long do the front ball-joints usually last on a 2013 Impreza?

On Aussie and Kiwi roads, many see 100,000–200,000 km, but it depends on driving and conditions. Beach runs, gravel, potholes, and bigger wheels can bring that down. If the boots split, replacement should be sooner rather than later.

Will worn ball-joints fail a WOF or roadworthy?

They can. Excessive play, torn boots with contamination, or obvious noise/movement at the joint are common reasons for a fail. If a tester spots movement or a leaking boot, expect a replacement and an alignment before passing.

Does the rear suspension on this model have ball-joints to service?

The common service item is the front lower ball-joint. The rear of most 2013 Impreza (non-WRX) variants uses multi-link arms with bushings rather than a separate, serviceable rear ball-joint. Always confirm by VIN in the parts catalogue if unsure, as some variants differ.