Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Coil springs

2016 Subaru Forester coil springs — what they do and when to replace them

Coil springs are absolutely fitted to the 2016 Subaru Forester (SJ series). Technical documentation backs this up: the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the SJ Forester details a front MacPherson strut with a coil spring and a rear double-wishbone setup using a coil spring and separate damper. Subaru’s genuine parts catalogues list distinct front and rear coil spring part numbers for 2014–2018 Forester models, and common workshop references and aftermarket catalogues (e.g., KYB, Monroe) specify direct-replacement coil springs for this vehicle. That combination of factory service information and parts listings confirms coil springs are standard on this model.

On the 2016 Forester, the coil spring carries the vehicle’s weight, sets ride height, and teams with the damper to control body movement. Up front, the spring is wrapped around the strut to save space and sharpen steering feel, down the back, the coil works with the double-wishbone layout to keep the tyres planted and the ride supple. Good springs help the Forester stay level with a load in the boot, soak up corrugations on outback roads, and keep the stability control happy.

There’s no fixed service interval for coil springs, but regular checks during scheduled servicing make sense—especially for vehicles that tow, carry gear, or see gravel and coastal conditions. Typical red flags include:

• Sagging ride height or the car sitting unevenly side to side
• Knocks or twangs over bumps, or a spring that looks kinked
• Cracks, heavy rust pitting, or broken ends on the coil
• Excessive bounce, nervous steering, or uneven tyre wear

If replacement is needed, best practice is to do springs in axle pairs (both fronts or both rears) to keep handling consistent. New upper insulators, seats and dust boots are cheap insurance, and dampers should be inspected at the same time. Ride height must be measured against Subaru specifications, and all pivot bolts should be torqued with the suspension at normal ride height to prevent bushing preload. A wheel alignment afterwards is a must.

For owners upgrading for touring or a light lift, spring rate and free length must suit the damper, and local rules apply: Australian ADR-compliance and state regs, and NZ LVVTA requirements, may dictate certification thresholds. When in doubt, follow the Subaru service manual procedures or have a qualified technician handle the work.

FAQs: 2016 Subaru Forester coil springs

Do all 2016 Foresters have coil springs front and rear?
Yes. The SJ Forester uses a MacPherson strut with a coil spring at the front and a coil spring with a separate damper in the rear double-wishbone assembly, as outlined in the Subaru Factory Service Manual and supported by OEM parts catalogues.

When should coil springs be replaced on a 2016 Forester?
There’s no set kilometre interval. Replace if there’s a cracked or broken coil, visible heavy corrosion, a noticeable drop in ride height, uneven stance, or persistent clunks. Many workshops inspect springs at each major service and after any suspension knock or impact.

Can heavier-duty or raised springs be fitted?
They can, provided the springs are matched to suitable dampers and the vehicle remains compliant with local regulations. Consider driveline angles, headlight aim, and electronic stability control behaviour. A post-install alignment is essential.