Parts for your 2015 Subaru Legacy-Bump stops

Understanding the Bump-Stops on the 2015 Subaru Legacy

The 2015 Subaru Legacy, like many vehicles of its class, does come equipped with bump-stops as part of its suspension system. Bump-stops might not be the first thing that springs to mind when thinking about car maintenance, but they play a crucial role in protecting your vehicle's suspension and ensuring a comfortable ride. For Subaru owners keen on keeping their Legacy in tip-top shape, understanding what bump-stops do and when to service or replace them is pretty important.

So, what exactly are bump-stops? Simply put, bump-stops are small components usually made from rubber or polyurethane that are fitted on the suspension system. Their main job is to prevent the suspension from fully compressing and bottoming out. When you hit a pothole, drive over a sharp crest, or carry a heavy load, the suspension compresses to absorb those shocks. Without bump-stops, the metal parts of the suspension could slam into each other, causing damage to critical components like springs, shocks or struts. Bump-stops act as a cushion or buffer, limiting how far the suspension compresses and protecting the system from harsh impacts.

On the 2015 Subaru Legacy, you will find bump-stops mounted as part of the front and rear suspension assemblies. Given the Legacy's reputation for being a comfortable and reliable family sedan that can handle a variety of road surfaces, these bump-stops contribute to the smooth ride the car delivers. They also help maintain the alignment and geometry of the suspension by preventing excessive movement that could cause wear or damage.

Another important thing bump-stops help with is controlling suspension noise. Without bump-stops, when the suspension bottoms out hard, it can create a loud clunk or bang that serves as a warning of potential damage. The bump-stops absorb a lot of the energy during hard compression, reducing noise and vibration, which enhances the overall driving experience.

When it comes to maintenance, bump-stops on the Subaru Legacy generally last a long time because they are made from durable materials designed to withstand repeated compression and exposure to elements like dirt, moisture and road salts. However, like all rubber or polymer suspension components, bump-stops can degrade over the years. They may crack, harden or even break apart, especially if the vehicle is regularly driven on rough roads or is heavily loaded.

Regular inspections as part of your vehicle servicing routine are a good idea. Mechanics will typically examine bump-stops whenever the suspension is serviced or when the car undergoes a wheel alignment. Signs that bump-stops might need replacing include visible cracks or chunks missing, excessive play in the suspension, or unusual noises when driving over bumps. It is a good idea to get these checked every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometres or sooner if your Legacy is exposed to harsh driving conditions.

Replacing bump-stops is usually straightforward and not very expensive. When worn bump-stops aren't replaced, you risk damage to more costly suspension parts like shocks, struts, and coil springs. Plus, the ride comfort can suffer, making your daily drives less pleasant. So, it's often a smart move to replace worn bump-stops sooner rather than later.

For Subaru Legacy owners who enjoy off-road trips or frequently load their vehicle heavily, bump-stops may wear faster. Keeping an eye on these components helps ensure your Legacy continues to perform safely and comfortably, no matter where the road takes you. Additionally, if you're upgrading or changing suspension components, new bump-stops are usually recommended to match the new setup.

In short, bump-stops on the 2015 Subaru Legacy play a quiet but vital role. They protect suspension components, improve ride quality, and help prevent noise and damage from hard impacts. While they don't often get much attention during everyday driving, bump-stops deserve some care during servicing. Subaru owners who check and replace bump-stops when needed are more likely to enjoy a smoother, safer ride and avoid costly repairs down the track.