Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Control arms

2016 Subaru Forester Control Arms: What They Do and When to Service Them

Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the SJ-series Forester (MY2014–2018) and Subaru’s official parts catalogue, the 2016 Subaru Forester is fitted with control arms. Up front it runs a MacPherson strut setup with lower control arms (A-arms), and at the rear it uses a multi-link/double-wishbone arrangement with lateral links and trailing arms that function as control arms. So yes—control arms are absolutely relevant on this model.

On a 2016 Forester, the control arms locate the wheels and manage how they move through suspension travel, keeping tyre contact patch stable while braking, cornering, and soaking up rough Kiwi and Aussie roads. The front lower control arms carry the ball joint and bushes (bushings), controlling caster and camber as the strut moves. Out back, the links maintain alignment and keep things planted without turning the ride harsh.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the control arm bushes and ball joints inspected for cracks, tearing, play, or perishing, especially from 80,000–150,000 km onward, or sooner if the vehicle sees rough roads, towing, or plenty of urban speed bumps. Worn bushes let the arm move around, which can cause steering shimmy, braking instability, and uneven tyre wear, tired ball joints can add clunks and vague steering feel.

Common signs it’s time to act include:

• Clunks or knocks over bumps
• Wandering or pulling under brakes
• Uneven or accelerated inner/outer tyre wear
• Steering that feels loose or tramlines

When replacing, many owners choose complete arm assemblies for the front, as they come with new bushes and a ball joint pre-fitted, saving time and hassle. Quality aftermarket or genuine arms both do the job, the key is correct fitment and torque at normal ride height so bushes aren’t pre-loaded. After any control arm, bush, or ball joint work, a professional wheel alignment is a must to protect tyres and restore factory handling.

Keeping the underside clean, checking for split dust boots, and addressing small bush cracks before they become full tears will help the Forester stay quiet, accurate, and confidence-inspiring on long motorway drives or gravel backroads alike. If in doubt, have a technician do a pry-bar and visual check on a hoist and report on bush condition, joint play, and alignment settings.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Forester control arms

Does a 2016 Forester definitely have control arms?
Yes. The Subaru Factory Service Manual and parts listings specify front lower control arms and rear multi-link control arms/lateral links on the 2016 Forester (SJ). They’re core components of the suspension.

How long do control arm bushes and ball joints last?
It varies with driving and conditions, but many see 80,000–150,000 km before noticeable wear. Rural corrugations, heavy loads, or frequent kerb impacts can shorten that. Regular inspections during servicing will catch issues early.

Do I need an alignment after replacing control arms?
Absolutely. Any time a control arm, bush, or ball joint is replaced, a proper wheel alignment is recommended to set camber, caster, and toe back to spec and prevent premature tyre wear.