Parts for your 2015 Subaru Forester-Exhaust mount

2015 Subaru Forester exhaust mount – what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2015 Subaru Forester (SJ) uses exhaust mounts (also called exhaust hangers or rubber cushions). Subaru’s technical documentation confirms this: the Forester (SJ) Workshop/Service Manual within the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) shows the exhaust pipe and muffler assemblies supported by rubber hanger cushions and brackets on the body. The Subaru dealer parts catalogue likewise lists dedicated “exhaust hanger/rubber cushion” items for the 2015 Forester’s mid-pipe and rear muffler sections. So an exhaust-mount is absolutely relevant to this vehicle.

On the 2015 Forester, the exhaust mounts are the small but critical rubber cushions that hold the exhaust system up while isolating vibration. They let the pipework and muffler move slightly as the engine rocks and the system heats and cools, keeping noise and harshness out of the cabin and stopping the tips thumping the bumper. If a mount perishes or stretches, the exhaust can sit low, rattle on the underbody, or stress joints and gaskets.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the exhaust mounts checked whenever the car’s on a hoist—typically every 10,000–15,000 km or 12 months, in line with Aussie and Kiwi service schedules. Look for cracked rubber, splits near the holes, shiny witness marks where the exhaust has been touching, or a noticeably droopy muffler. Any oil-soaked or heat-hardened rubbers should be swapped out.

Replacement is straightforward with the right approach: let the exhaust go stone cold, safely support the system, then spritz a bit of silicone spray on the pegs and pop the old hangers off with pliers or a dedicated exhaust-hanger tool. Fit like-for-like quality rubber cushions, mixing stiffness side to side can skew alignment. After fitting, make sure the muffler sits square, there’s decent clearance to the bumper and subframe, and that brackets are tightened to factory spec from the service manual. It’s a good time to eyeball heat shields, clamp hardware and the donut/gasket at joints too.

Owners chasing a firmer feel can use stiffer polyurethane hangers, which resist sagging, but they can transmit more vibration into the cabin. For a daily-driven Forester, fresh OEM-style rubber is usually the sweet spot—quiet, compliant and long-lasting.

• Typical symptoms: rear-end rattle over bumps, exhaust tip hitting the bumper, new droning/vibration, or a visibly low-slung muffler.
• Good practice: replace aged mounts in sets on the same section (e.g., both rear hangers) to keep alignment tidy.

Popular questions about 2015 Subaru Forester exhaust mounts

How do they know the exhaust mounts are failing on a 2015 Forester?
They’ll usually hear a rattle or thud from the rear, especially on start-up or over corrugations. Looking underneath, the muffler may sit lower than usual, and the rubber cushions can show cracks, splits, or heavy elongation. If the exhaust tip has been kissing the bumper, there’ll be scuffing or melted plastic.

How often should the mounts be checked in Aussie/NZ conditions?
Have them inspected at each routine service, about every 10,000–15,000 km or yearly. Vehicles that tow, see lots of gravel roads, or cop coastal exposure may need closer attention due to extra heat, movement and corrosion.

Are polyurethane hangers a good idea on a Forester?
They’re tougher and resist sagging, handy if there’s a heavy towbar or aftermarket exhaust. But they can pass more vibration into the cabin. For most daily drivers, fresh OEM-spec rubber hangers balance refinement and durability nicely.