Parts for your 2015 Subaru Forester-Strut mounts

2015 Subaru Forester strut mounts

Based on technical references — the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the SJ-series Forester (front suspension section) and OEM parts catalogues for the 2015 Forester — this model uses MacPherson struts at the front with dedicated upper strut mounts (often called top hats or strut top bearings). The rear is a double-wishbone setup with a separate shock and spring, using a shock upper mount rather than a strut mount. So, strut mounts are fitted to the front of the 2015 Subaru Forester.

On the 2015 Forester, the front strut mounts do two big jobs: they support the vehicle’s weight at the top of the strut and they let the front suspension rotate smoothly as the steering turns. Each mount contains rubber to soak up vibration and, typically, an integrated bearing so the spring and strut can pivot without binding. That combo keeps steering light and precise while filtering out road harshness — exactly what Forester drivers expect around town and on rougher Kiwi and Aussie roads.

There isn’t a fixed replacement interval for strut mounts, they’re a “replace when worn” item. Age, kilometres, and road conditions all play a part. As the rubber hardens or cracks and the bearing dries out, the Forester can develop clunks over bumps, creaks when turning the wheel, or a notchy “memory steer” feel where the wheel doesn’t self-centre cleanly. Uneven tyre wear or vague steering can also crop up if the mount allows unwanted movement.

Good servicing practice is to inspect the front strut mounts any time the tyres, brakes, or suspension are off — or at regular intervals around 20,000–30,000 km. Look for perished rubber, collapsed mounts (spring plate sitting unusually low), or signs of bearing roughness when turning the strut by hand. If the front struts are being replaced due to leakage or wear, it’s smart money to renew the mounts at the same time.

When replacement is needed, doing both front mounts as a pair keeps handling balanced. Use quality OE or reputable aftermarket mounts and new self-locking nuts where specified. Because the front MacPherson strut locates wheel alignment, removing it can nudge camber and caster — a professional wheel alignment after the job is strongly recommended. A proper spring compressor is essential for safety, and orientation marks on the mount should be followed so the studs sit correctly in the tower. Once fitted, expect quieter operation, cleaner steering feel, and more consistent tyre wear.

• Common symptoms: clunking over bumps, creaking while steering, notchy or heavy steering, uneven tyre wear, imprecise turn-in.
• Best practice: inspect during routine servicing, replace in pairs, align wheels after strut work, torque fasteners to factory spec.

Does the 2015 Forester have strut mounts at both ends?

No. The front uses MacPherson struts with strut mounts. The rear runs a double-wishbone suspension with a separate shock and spring, which uses a shock upper mount rather than a strut mount.

How long do front strut mounts typically last on a 2015 Forester?

Service life varies with roads and load, but many last well past 100,000 km. Once noise, rough steering feel, or rubber cracking shows up, replacement is due — often alongside new front struts.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing front strut mounts?

Yes. Any time the front struts are removed or disturbed, the alignment can shift. A post-repair wheel alignment helps protect tyre life and restores straight-line stability and steering feel.