Parts for your 2013 Subaru Legacy-Coil springs

2013 Subaru Legacy coil springs — what they do and when to replace

Coil springs are absolutely fitted to the 2013 Subaru Legacy. Technical documentation supports this: the Subaru Service Manual (STIS) for the BM/BR Legacy platform lists a MacPherson strut with a coil spring up front and a double-wishbone rear suspension with a separate coil spring, the Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue for MY2013 also lists front and rear coil springs for all Legacy variants, and dealer-fitment guides from major suspension manufacturers show coil-over strut assemblies at the front and coil-spring seats at the rear. So coil springs are relevant to this model.

On this Legacy, the coil springs carry the vehicle’s weight, keep ride height correct, and let the dampers do their job controlling bounce. Paired with front struts and rear shocks, the springs absorb road bumps, keep the tyres planted, and help the car corner predictably — which is exactly what owners expect from Subaru’s balanced chassis.

As part of regular servicing, it pays to have the springs inspected for cracks, rust flaking, broken ends, and sag. A drooping corner, clunks over speed humps, or a harsh, pogo-like ride are common signs the springs are tired or broken. In Australia and New Zealand, corrosion from coastal air and road grime can accelerate wear, especially where the spring seats collect debris.

• Always replace coil springs in axle pairs to keep ride height and handling even.
• Use the correct Legacy BM/BR spring rate for the engine/trim to avoid nose-up or tail-down stance.
• Inspect and, if needed, replace strut mounts, isolators, dust boots and bump stops at the same time.
• After replacement, get a wheel alignment — ride height changes will shift camber and toe.
• Torque all fasteners with the suspension at normal ride height to prevent bushing preload and squeaks.

Many owners see 150,000–200,000 km from factory springs, but high loads, towing, rough roads or rust can shorten that. A quick look at every service, and a more thorough check during a Warrant of Fitness (NZ) or roadworthy inspection (AU), helps catch issues early. If the Legacy regularly carries gear or runs roof racks, consider heavy-duty or Subaru OEM accessory springs matched to the OE dampers for better support without ruining ride quality.

Popular questions

How long do the 2013 Legacy’s coil springs typically last?
With normal driving they often last well past 150,000 km, and many make it to 200,000 km or more. Frequent loads, gravel roads, or coastal corrosion can bring that forward, so routine inspections are wise.

Should coil springs be replaced in pairs?
Yes, springs should be done per axle. Replacing only one can leave the car uneven, upset handling balance, and speed up wear on the opposite side.

What are the tell-tale signs a coil spring has failed?
A lowered corner, metallic clunks, a tilting stance, or uneven tyre wear are common. Sometimes a broken tail of the spring hides in the seat — a careful visual check with the wheel off will reveal it.