Parts for your 2016 Subaru Impreza-Control arms

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

Based on factory documentation, control arms are absolutely used on the 2016 Subaru Impreza (GJ/GP). Subaru’s official Service Manual (Chassis section: Front Suspension – “Front Arm, Lower”/“Transverse Link”) and the Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue (Group 20: Front Suspension, Group 21: Rear Suspension) list front lower control arms and rear lateral links commonly referred to as control arms. Aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Whiteline, MOOG) also specify replacement front lower control arms and bush kits for this model, confirming fitment.

On this Impreza, the front uses a MacPherson strut with a lower control arm (Subaru calls it the front arm or transverse link) to locate the wheel, control camber and caster under load, and isolate road harshness via rubber or hydraulic bushes. The rear uses a multi-link arrangement with lateral links and trailing arms—functionally control arms—to keep the wheel tracking straight while allowing the suspension to move freely. Together, they keep steering feel tidy, tyre contact consistent, and ride comfort civilised across Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Over time, bushings wear, ball joints loosen, and the arm itself can bend from potholes or a nudge on a kerb. Typical tells include clunks over bumps, steering shimmy on the motorway, uneven tyre wear, vague turn-in, or a pull under brakes. If any of that crops up, it’s worth a look during servicing.

For routine maintenance, a technician will visually check arm bushings for cracking or separation, inspect ball-joint boots for splits or leaks, and measure play. Any corrosion on the arm, elongated bolt holes, or a bent flange is grounds for replacement. When replacing, best practice from the Subaru workshop procedures is to:

• Torque fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading bushes.
• Use new self-locking nuts/bolts where specified, and follow the pinch-bolt/ball-joint procedure exactly.
• Book a four-wheel alignment straight after, as camber/toe can shift with fresh bushes or arms.

Quality matters here—OEM or reputable aftermarket arms and bush kits hold alignment better and last longer, especially with big temperature swings and coarse-chip surfaces. Many owners treat bush replacement as a mid-life refresh (often around 100–160,000 km, usage dependent). If the Impreza sees rough roads or heavy loads, more frequent checks keep it safe, quiet, and easy on tyres.

Popular questions

What are the signs my 2016 Impreza’s control arm bushes or ball joints are worn?
Expect clunks over speed bumps, steering that wanders or feels nervous, and inner or outer tyre edge wear. You may also hear a knock when braking or accelerating as the arm shifts. A proper inspection with the wheels lifted will confirm play in bushes or ball joints.

Do I need a wheel alignment after control arm work?
Yes. Even if only bushes are changed, the geometry can shift. A four-wheel alignment restores camber and toe so it tracks straight and protects your tyres. It’s best done immediately after the job.

How long do control arm bushes typically last in Australia or New Zealand?
It varies with roads and driving, but many see noticeable wear somewhere between 100,000 and 160,000 km. Regular checks at service time are smart if the car does lots of city kerb-hopping, gravel work, or towing.