Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2016 Subaru Forester: Purpose, Maintenance and Replacement

The 2016 Subaru Forester is a popular SUV known for its reliable performance and well-engineered suspension system. One often overlooked yet important component within this setup is the bump-stop. Bump-stops play a crucial role in protecting the suspension and improving ride quality, especially in vehicles designed to handle rough terrain like the Forester. If you own a 2016 Subaru Forester or are looking into its suspension components, understanding bump-stops, their purpose, and how to maintain or replace them can help keep your vehicle running smoothly.

So what exactly are bump-stops? Bump-stops are small but sturdy rubber or polyurethane cushions located within the suspension system of many vehicles, including the 2016 Forester. Their primary role is to prevent the suspension from fully compressing and bottoming out when you hit a large bump or pothole or when the vehicle experiences heavy loading. Without bump-stops, the metal parts of the suspension could slam together, causing damage to shocks, struts, control arms, or other suspension components. This can lead to poor handling, uncomfortable rides, and costly repairs down the track.

The 2016 Subaru Forester uses bump-stops as part of its well-designed suspension system. These bump-stops are typically positioned on the strut assembly, compressing as the suspension reaches its travel limit. When they engage, bump-stops help absorb harsh impacts, reducing the shock force transmitted to the chassis and occupants. In this way, they contribute to a smoother ride over rough roads and help extend the lifespan of suspension parts.

One of the reasons bump-stops are essential on the Forester is due to its nature as a versatile SUV. Many Forester owners take their vehicles off-road or on uneven surfaces, which means the suspension frequently endures extreme compression and rebound. The bump-stops act as a safety cushion, preventing anything from going beyond safe limits. Even in everyday urban driving, potholes and speed humps can cause the suspension to compress, making bump-stops a vital component to protect your vehicle.

When it comes to servicing the bump-stops on your 2016 Subaru Forester, it's a good idea to have them inspected during regular suspension checks. While bump-stops are durable, they can degrade over time due to constant compression and exposure to the elements. Rubber bumps can crack, harden or even break, losing their effectiveness to cushion impacts. Polyurethane bump-stops tend to last longer but can also suffer from wear. Worn or damaged bump-stops increase the risk of suspension damage and reduce ride comfort.

Replacing bump-stops is a relatively simple task, especially for mechanics familiar with Subaru suspensions. They usually come as part of a strut assembly kit or can be replaced individually. If your Forester is due for a shock absorber or strut replacement, it makes perfect sense to replace the bump-stops at the same time. This ensures optimum performance and value for money in parts and servicing labour. Plus, a fresh set of bump-stops helps maintain that smooth, controlled ride the Forester is known for.

Signs that your bump-stops may require attention on the Forester include unusual noises like clunking or banging when driving over bumps, excessive bottoming out, or the vehicle feeling less stable. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's wise to get your suspension inspected by a qualified technician. Preventative maintenance here can save big on repairs down the road and keep your Forester handling confidently.

In terms of DIY maintenance, while replacing bump-stops involves disassembling suspension components and may require specialised tools, regular visual checks can still be helpful. Looking for cracks, deformities or wear on easily accessible parts of the suspension can give an early indication if a professional inspection is needed. Just remember that the suspension system is critical for safety and performance, so any work beyond simple checks should be handled by experienced mechanics.

All up, bump-stops are a small but mighty part of the 2016 Subaru Forester's suspension system. They protect the vehicle from damage caused by hard impacts and help deliver the smooth and controlled ride drivers expect. Regular inspection and timely replacement of bump-stops, especially following any suspension repairs or if the vehicle experiences heavy use, can keep the Forester performing at its best. So go ahead and give bump-stops the attention they deserve during your vehicle servicing schedule. Your suspension and your drives will thank you.