Parts for your 2014 Subaru Forester-Strut mounts

Strut Mounts on the 2014 Subaru Forester: What You Need to Know

The 2014 Subaru Forester uses a MacPherson strut front suspension setup, which is a common design among many vehicles for its compact and efficient use of space. This means that the vehicle does indeed have strut mounts as an integral part of its suspension system. Strut mounts play a crucial role in how the car handles, the comfort of the ride, and even the overall safety on the road.

Strut mounts are the components that connect the struts of the suspension to the vehicle's body or chassis. On the 2014 Subaru Forester, these mounts not only hold the struts securely in place but also isolate noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) from transmitting inside the cabin. They act as a buffer between the suspension and the body, absorbing impacts and keeping everything aligned properly so that the wheels respond accurately to road conditions and steering inputs.

A bit of background on the 2014 Forester's suspension, it typically features a strut assembly at the front and a multi-link rear suspension setup. The front strut mounts also include a bearing that allows the strut to rotate smoothly when turning the steering wheel. This bearing is vital for steering responsiveness and overall driving feel. If the strut mount or its bearing wears out, drivers can experience clunking noises from the front end, poor ride quality, uneven tyre wear, or even difficulties in controlling the car properly.

When it comes to maintaining or replacing strut mounts on the 2014 Subaru Forester, it's best to keep a close eye on the condition of these components during regular servicing intervals or whenever the front struts themselves require attention. Worn or damaged strut mounts won't just make the ride noisy or uncomfortable, they can affect the vehicle's suspension geometry and potentially cause additional damage to the struts or tyres.

Most mechanics recommend inspecting the strut mounts every 50,000 to 60,000 kilometres, although this can vary depending on driving conditions. Rough roads, potholes, and frequent off-road usage can accelerate the wear and tear on these mounts, so if the Forester is used in demanding conditions, it's wise to check them more regularly. Signs that strut mounts may need replacement include unusual noises when turning the steering wheel, excessive vibration felt through the steering, or any clunking sounds during bumps.

Replacing strut mounts on the 2014 Subaru Forester is not just a job for the sake of it. It's a crucial step in maintaining the overall suspension health. Often, it makes good sense to replace the strut mounts whenever the struts are replaced, as the mounts and struts work as a team. New struts paired with old, worn mounts might result in premature wear of the suspension components again, defeating the purpose of a suspension overhaul.

Also, servicing the strut mounts usually involves examining the condition of the rubber bushings and the bearing within the mount. Any cracking, hardening, or deformation in the rubber means the mount has lost its ability to isolate vibration and noise effectively. The bearing, if worn, can cause steering to feel stiff or rough, so replacing the complete mount assembly is generally recommended rather than trying to replace individual components.

In the context of a 2014 Subaru Forester, using genuine or OEM-quality replacement parts is highly advisable. Subaru's engineering ensures these parts fit precisely and perform as expected, keeping the Forester's handling sharp and the ride comfortable. Cheaper aftermarket options might save some money initially but can lead to poor fit, quicker wear, and possibly worse noise and vibration issues.

Overall, strut mounts might not be the most glamorous part of the Forester, but their role in keeping the vehicle handling well and providing a smooth, quiet ride is undeniable. Regular checks during scheduled maintenance or if symptoms appear will save owners from bigger headaches down the track and help maintain the Forester's reputation as a reliable and comfortable SUV.