Parts for your 2014 Subaru Outback-Strut mounts

2014 Subaru Outback strut mounts: what they do and when to replace them

Technical references confirm the 2014 Subaru Outback (BM/BR) runs MacPherson struts up front with dedicated strut top mounts, while the rear uses a separate shock and coil spring setup without strut mounts. This layout is documented in the Subaru Factory Service Manual (Front Suspension – MacPherson strut), the Subaru Genuine Parts catalogue (listing front upper support/strut mount for 2010–2014 Outback/Legacy), and major fitment guides from KYB and Monroe for the same model years. So yes—strut mounts are absolutely relevant on the front of a 2014 Outback.

Up front, the strut mount sits at the top of the strut assembly, bolting to the body and isolating road vibration with a rubber insulator. It also houses a bearing plate that lets the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. When that mount or bearing wears, the Outback can feel clunky over bumps, vague on turn-in, or develop that annoying “memory steer” where the wheel doesn’t quite centre after a corner.

There’s no strict replacement interval for strut mounts, but they’re a wear item. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—think corrugations, potholes and loaded road trips—many workshops check them every 50,000 km, and commonly replace them when fitting new front struts around the 100,000–160,000 km mark. If the vehicle shows front-end knocks on bumps, creaks when turning at parking speeds, or uneven front tyre wear, the mounts and bearings deserve a proper inspection.

• Best practice is to replace strut mounts in pairs across the front, ideally together with struts, bump stops and dust boots.
• Use quality OE-equivalent parts to keep steering feel and noise levels right.
• Observe correct torque settings for the centre shaft nut and top mount nuts, avoid spinning the strut rod with a rattle gun.
• Book a wheel alignment after any front strut or mount work to protect tyre life.

When serviced correctly, fresh mounts restore that planted, quiet ride the Outback is known for, making long hauls and weekend trails far more pleasant. It’s a small component that does a big job—keeping noise out of the cabin and steering response crisp, kilometre after kilometre.

Popular questions

Do 2014 Outbacks have rear strut mounts?
No. The rear suspension uses a separate shock and spring (multi-link/double wishbone), so there are shock upper mounts—not strut mounts—at the back. Only the front uses strut mounts.

How long do front strut mounts last on a 2014 Outback?
Many last 100,000–160,000 km, but life varies with road quality and load. If there’s clunking on bumps, steering that won’t smoothly return to centre, or tyre wear issues, have them checked sooner.

Should strut mounts be replaced when fitting new front struts?
Highly recommended. New mounts and bearings ensure quiet operation and proper steering feel, and it saves labour compared with pulling the struts apart again later.