Parts for your 2016 Subaru Xv-Control arms

Understanding the Control Arms on Your 2016 Subaru XV

The 2016 Subaru XV is a popular compact SUV known for its solid performance and robust design, especially favoured by Aussies who love a bit of adventure off the beaten track. One of the key components that keep this vehicle handling well and riding smoothly is its control arms. If you've heard the term and wondered what control arms actually do or whether your Subaru XV even has them, this guide will clear things up and offer some handy advice on maintaining or replacing them.

First off, yes, the 2016 Subaru XV does use control arms. They are an essential part of the car's suspension system. In simple terms, control arms act as the link between the wheels and the car's frame. They allow the wheels to move up and down while keeping them properly aligned with the road and the body of the car. This ensures that the Subaru XV stays stable, even on rough surfaces or during sharp turns.

Now, what exactly do control arms do? Well, imagine the Subaru XV's suspension as a team working together to provide comfort and control. The control arms are like the team's connecting rods. They hold the wheels firmly but still allow a bit of flexibility so that when you hit bumps or potholes, the shock isn't sent straight to the cabin. Instead, the control arms help the suspension absorb those jolts, making your ride smoother and more controlled.

Control arms typically have bushings on either end - these are rubber or polyurethane pieces that provide cushioning between the arm and the mounting points on the chassis and wheel hub. This cushioning helps reduce vibration and noise, so if you notice clunks or rattles during your drives, worn control arm bushings could be the culprit.

For the 2016 Subaru XV, the front suspension employs control arms as part of a MacPherson strut setup. This is a common suspension design that balances comfort with handling precision. The rear also uses control arms, ensuring that the wheels keep proper contact with the road surface no matter the terrain. Because the Subaru XV is designed with some off-road capability, ensuring these parts are in good nick is important for safety and driving enjoyment.

When it comes to maintenance, control arms usually don't get much attention unless something goes wrong. However, checking them during scheduled servicing is a smart move. Over time, control arm bushings and ball joints can wear out from the constant up and down movement and exposure to dirt, salt, and water - especially in Australian conditions. Cracked, torn, or hardened bushings can lead to poor handling, rougher rides, uneven tyre wear, and might even affect your wheel alignment.

Signs your Subaru XV might need a control arm inspection or replacement include:

• Unusual noises, like knocking or clunking, especially over bumps or during turns
• Steering feels loose or the car pulls to one side
• Uneven or premature tyre wear
• Vibrations through the steering wheel

Ignoring worn or damaged control arms can be a risky game. A failing control arm can affect your vehicle's stability and responsiveness, which is something no driver wants, particularly when carrying passengers or heading down tricky Aussie backroads.

Replacing control arms on a 2016 Subaru XV isn't usually an everyday fix, but when needed, it's best handled by a qualified mechanic. They'll inspect the control arm itself as well as the bushings and ball joints to make sure everything is up to scratch. Sometimes, just the bushings or ball joints need to be replaced rather than the entire control arm. However, if the arm is bent or rusted through, a full replacement is necessary.

When replacing control arms or components, going with quality parts is important. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are designed specifically for your Subaru and usually provide the best fit and longevity. Some aftermarket options might be cheaper, but they can compromise your XV's ride and handling characteristics if they don't meet the right specs.

Another tip for Subaru XV owners is to get your suspension aligned after any control arm work. This ensures the wheels are properly positioned, avoiding unnecessary tyre wear and helping your car drive straight and true.

Lastly, while servicing your Subaru XV, it's worth asking your service centre to inspect the control arms and all related suspension components. Preventative checks mean you can catch issues early before they turn into bigger - and more expensive - problems.

All in all, control arms might not be the flashiest part of your Subaru XV, but they play a vital role in keeping your ride comfortable and your handling sharp. Look after them, and they'll help keep your 2016 XV performing well on everything from city streets to rugged Aussie tracks.