Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Bump stops

2016 Subaru Exiga bump-stops

Technical documentation shows the 2016 Subaru Exiga is fitted with bump-stops (also called jounce bumpers) on both front struts and rear dampers. This is confirmed by factory literature that lists the bumper as a serviceable component of the front MacPherson strut and rear shock absorber assemblies.

• Subaru Exiga (YA) Service Manual – Front Suspension and Rear Suspension sections identify “Bumper – Front Strut” and “Bumper – Rear Shock” within the exploded views and parts lists.
• Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST) for Model YA (Exiga) lists bumpers/jounce stoppers for front struts and rear shocks as discrete components.
• Major shock manufacturers’ fitment guides for Exiga YA models include service kits with dust boots and jounce bumpers, indicating OE use.

On the 2016 Exiga, the bump-stop acts as a progressive cushioning block that steps in at the end of suspension travel. It prevents metal-to-metal bottoming when the car hits sharp bumps, speed humps or corrugations, and it helps keep the Exiga settled when loaded with the family, a boot full of gear or a towball download. By adding a rising-rate cushion near full compression, the bump-stop also protects the strut/shock internals, top mounts and body mounts, trimming noise and harshness while maintaining steering control.

They’re made from microcellular polyurethane foam or rubber and live under the dust boot on the strut/shock shaft. Over time they can crack, crumble, oil-soak or compress permanently, especially with Aussie and Kiwi conditions like unsealed roads and coastal air. Tell-tales include a sharp thud over big hits, more bottoming on speed humps, torn dust boots and faster wear of top mounts.

During routine servicing, it’s smart to have the bump-stops inspected whenever the suspension is checked—typically every 20,000–30,000 km or at tyre rotations. Replacement is recommended if they’re split, missing, oil-soaked, hardened or noticeably shortened. If changing springs, shocks, or altering ride height, the bump-stops should be matched to the new travel so they don’t contact too early or too late. Replace in axle pairs and choose OE-quality foam pieces for the right rate and fitment.

Fronts require strut removal and spring compression to swap the bumper and dust boot, rears are similar but model-dependent. After front strut work, a wheel alignment is a good shout. Do not lubricate bump-stops, keep dust boots intact to protect them. For towing, heavy loads or frequent gravel use, consider duty-appropriate bump-stops or auxiliary spring aids, ensuring compliance with local road rules and WOF/reg requirements.

• When to replace: at visible damage, after shock leaks/failure, with any ride-height change, or around the 8–12 year mark depending on use.
• Best practice: quality parts, replace in pairs, and align after front strut removal.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Exiga bump-stops

How often should Exiga bump-stops be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, but they should be inspected at regular services. In typical Aussie/NZ use they often last 8–12 years. Replace sooner if cracked, crumbling, oil-soaked from a leaking shock, or if the car bottoms out harshly over bumps.

What are the symptoms of worn or missing bump-stops?
Expect a sharp thud on big compressions, more body crash over speed humps, and accelerated wear of strut top mounts. A torn or collapsed dust boot often accompanies a failing bumper. Visual inspection with the suspension unloaded will usually confirm it.

Can bump-stops be upgraded for towing or rough roads?
Yes, duty-tuned bump-stops or auxiliary jounce aids can help manage heavy loads and corrugations. They must be correctly sized so they don’t put the Exiga on the stops too early, and any changes should remain compliant with local regulations and not compromise WOF/reg inspections.