Parts for your 2017 Subaru Exiga-Ball joints

2017 Subaru Exiga ball joints — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, ball joints are fitted to the 2017 Subaru Exiga. Subaru’s own service manuals for the Exiga/Crossover 7 platform specify a MacPherson strut front suspension with a lower control arm and a front lower arm ball joint connecting the steering knuckle to the arm. Subaru parts catalogues also list a dedicated front lower ball joint for this model, and major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., MOOG, Sankei 555) include direct-fit ball joints for the 2008–2018 Exiga/Crossover 7 range. Many Exiga variants also use a small ball joint at the rear knuckle within the multi-link setup.

On the 2017 Exiga, the front lower ball joints act as the pivot point that lets the front wheels steer while the suspension moves up and down. They carry vehicle load, keep the wheel hub located relative to the control arm, and help maintain alignment angles for tidy handling and even tyre wear. They’re usually sealed, non-greasable units with a protective dust boot. When the joint or boot wears, play develops, causing vague steering, knocks on bumps, and accelerated tyre wear.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the Exiga’s ball joints at each service interval (or at least every 10–15,000 km). A proper check involves lifting the wheel safely, feeling for play at 12 and 6 o’clock, and visually inspecting the dust boot for splits or grease seepage. Any measurable play or a torn boot is grounds for replacement.

• Tell-tale signs include clunks over speed humps, steering wander, shimmy under braking, uneven inner or outer tyre wear, and a percussive “tap” over sharp bumps.
• A split or missing dust boot, rust-coloured dust, or leaked grease around the joint also points to trouble.

When replacement is due, quality matters. Choose reputable OEM-equivalent parts, replace in pairs across the front axle where practical, and have a wheel alignment done afterwards to protect tyres and road manners. On this Subaru, removal typically involves separating the tapered stud from the knuckle and extracting the joint from the control arm or knuckle carrier, it’s a safety-critical job, so professional fitment is recommended. Fresh pinch-bolts/nuts are often specified by the manufacturer, and correct torqueing is essential.

Driving with a worn ball joint risks rapid tyre wear and, in the worst case, loss of control. Staying ahead with periodic inspections keeps the Exiga steering sharp, compliant, and ready for family duties, long trips, and everything in between — exactly what a tidy Subaru should feel like.

Does a 2017 Subaru Exiga have ball joints front and rear?

Yes. It has front lower ball joints as part of the MacPherson strut front end. Many variants also use a small ball joint at the rear knuckle within the multi-link setup, while other rear links ride on rubber bushes. Front joints are the most commonly serviced items.

How often should Exiga ball joints be checked or replaced?

Have them inspected at every service or at least every 10–15,000 km. Replace immediately if there’s play, a torn boot, or noise. There’s no fixed kilometre-based replacement, lifespan depends on roads, loads, and driving conditions. Always do a wheel alignment after replacement.

What symptoms point to worn ball joints on an Exiga?

Listen and feel for clunks over bumps, steering vagueness, uneven tyre wear, and a shimmy or knock when braking or turning at low speed. Any of these signs warrant a workshop check. In NZ, noticeable play can fail a WOF, in Australia, it can lead to a defect or rego issues, so don’t ignore it.