Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Struts

2016 Subaru Exiga struts — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, struts are relevant on the 2016 Subaru Exiga. Technical references including Subaru’s factory service literature for the YA-platform Exiga, Subaru Global product information for the Exiga/Exiga Crossover 7, and major suspension catalogues (e.g., KYB, Monroe) confirm the car uses MacPherson struts at the front, with a double-wishbone rear that runs separate springs and shock absorbers (i.e., no rear struts).

Up front, the strut is the key suspension leg that combines the shock absorber with a coil spring seat and top mount. It locates the wheel, damps bumps and body motions, and helps keep alignment steady so the Exiga steers cleanly and brakes with confidence. On Kiwi back roads or Aussie corrugations, healthy front struts make a massive difference to ride, grip, and tyre wear.

Owners typically won’t have a fixed replacement interval, instead, condition-based servicing is the go. Quality OE-equivalent struts can last 80,000–150,000 kilometres, but use, load, and road quality matter. Family hauling, towing, and rough surfaces will shorten their life. Regular checks (every 20,000 km or annually) during a service or WOF/roadworthy inspection are smart.

• Signs it’s time: oil misting or leaks on the strut body, clunks over bumps, floaty or bouncy feel, nose-dive under brakes, steering shimmy, or uneven/cupped tyres.
• Best practice: replace struts in axle pairs, inspect/renew top mounts and bearings, and book a wheel alignment straight after.

When fitting, a technician will either rebuild with new inserts and springs or use complete assemblies to save time and ensure everything’s fresh. If reusing springs, proper compressors and safety gear are non-negotiable. Bolts should be torqued with the suspension at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload, and any slotted camber bolts reset during alignment. Because the Exiga’s AWD layout places extra weight over the nose, keeping front struts in good nick helps protect tyres and CVs, and sharpens steering on wet, coarse-chip surfaces.

For everyday peace of mind, owners can simply ask their workshop to check for leaks, top-mount play, and rebound control at each service. Staying ahead of wear keeps the seven-seater comfy, settled, and safe for school runs and long holiday drives alike.

Do 2016 Exiga models have rear struts?
Not on the rear. The Exiga uses a double-wishbone rear with separate shocks and springs. Only the front suspension uses MacPherson struts. If there’s a rear knock or bounce, the part to check is the rear shock absorber and its mounts, not a rear strut.

How often should front struts be replaced?
There’s no hard limit. Many last 80,000–150,000 km. Inspect annually or every 20,000 km, and replace based on condition and symptoms. Loads, towing, and rough roads bring the timeline forward, while gentle commuting can push it out.

Is an alignment needed after strut replacement?
Yes. Changing struts can alter camber and toe, especially with camber bolts in the knuckle. A proper four-wheel alignment restores steering feel, tyre life, and straight-line stability.