Parts for your 2015 Subaru Impreza-Control arms

2015 Subaru Impreza control-arms: what they do and when to service them

Control-arms are absolutely used on the 2015 Subaru Impreza. Technical sources including the Subaru Impreza (GP/GJ, MY2015) Service Manual – Suspension section, the Subaru genuine parts catalogue for MY2015 Impreza, and independent workshop references such as the Haynes manual for 2012–2016 Impreza confirm a front MacPherson strut layout with a lower control-arm (often called a transverse link) and a rear double-wishbone setup using lateral links that function as control-arms.

On this model, the front lower control-arms locate the hub and strut in the correct position, controlling camber and caster while letting the suspension move freely. They use bushings to isolate vibration and a ball-joint connection at the knuckle to pivot smoothly. Out back, the double-wishbone arrangement uses multiple arms (lateral links and a trailing arm) to keep the wheel’s geometry tidy across bumps and cornering. It’s the quiet hero of the Impreza’s planted, predictable feel in Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the control-arms, bushings and ball-joints every 20,000–30,000 kilometres, or at least annually if the car sees rough roads, kerb knocks or the odd pothole surprise. Look for torn or leaking hydro-bushes, perished rubber, cracked brackets, or any rust and impact damage. On many 2015 Imprezas the front ball-joint is a separate item from the arm, the arm typically comes with new bushes pre-fitted, which saves hassle. Always re-torque fasteners at normal ride height using the specs in the Subaru workshop manual to prevent premature bush wear.

Fresh arms or bushes can sharpen steering response, reduce braking shimmy and tidy up tyre wear. After any arm, bush or ball-joint replacement, a full four-wheel alignment is a must—toe and camber will shift even if you’re careful. OE-style rubber or hydro-bushes keep things comfy, performance poly bushes add precision but may pass a bit more road feel and noise. Replacing components in pairs (left and right) helps keep handling balanced.

• Common symptoms of wear:
  • Clunks over bumps or when braking
  • Wandering or tramlining on the motorway
  • Uneven or rapid tyre wear at the inner or outer edges
  • Steering that won’t self-centre cleanly
• Handy tips:
  • Check after any wheel or kerb strike
  • Replace stretch/one-time-use bolts and corroded hardware
  • Confirm part fitment by VIN—some trims differ in arm material and bush style

Popular questions about 2015 Subaru Impreza control-arms

Do the front and rear of a 2015 Impreza both use control-arms?
Yes. The front uses a lower control-arm (transverse link) with a MacPherson strut, and the rear uses a double-wishbone layout with multiple arms (lateral links and a trailing arm). Together they manage wheel alignment angles and keep the ride stable and predictable.

How long do control-arm bushes and ball-joints typically last?
It varies with driving and road conditions. Many Imprezas see 100,000–160,000 km from original bushes and ball-joints, but harsh roads, heavy loads or frequent city kerb hits can shorten that. Listen for knocks, feel for vague steering, and keep an eye on tyre wear—then inspect and replace as needed.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control-arms?
Definitely. Any change to arms, bushes or ball-joints can alter geometry. A proper four-wheel alignment gets camber, caster and toe back where they should be, protecting tyres and restoring straight-line stability and steering feel.