Parts for your 2017 Subaru Exiga-Struts

Understanding Struts on the 2017 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Subaru Exiga is a popular choice among families looking for a spacious and reliable people mover. When it comes to the suspension setup on this vehicle, it is important to understand how components like struts fit into the picture, and whether or not they even apply. After referencing technical sources and Subaru's own specifications for the 2017 Exiga, it turns out that the front suspension uses MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup with conventional shock absorbers rather than struts. So struts are definitely part of the equation, at least on the front end of the Subaru Exiga.

Struts are a crucial part of the front suspension system on many modern vehicles, including the 2017 Subaru Exiga. Essentially, struts combine the functions of a shock absorber and a structural support component. They help absorb bumps and vibrations from the road, improving ride comfort and handling, while also providing a mounting point for the coil spring and steering system. This integration makes struts a highly efficient design for front suspensions, especially in vehicles that use MacPherson struts.

The front MacPherson struts found on the Exiga have a coil spring wrapped around a dampening shock absorber. When the car hits a bump or uneven terrain, the strut compresses and the shock absorber inside slows the spring's rebound, preventing excessive bouncing. This keeps the ride smooth and stable and enhances driver control. Additionally, the struts help position the front wheels and maintain alignment angles, which are critical for safe handling and tyre wear.

Over time, struts take a fair amount of wear and tear given their constant work managing bumps, weight, and steering forces. If the 2017 Subaru Exiga's front struts become worn or damaged, drivers might notice symptoms such as a bouncy or rough ride, excessive body roll in corners, uneven tyre wear, or knocking noises over bumps. It is a good idea to have the struts inspected periodically, especially as the vehicle racks up kilometres or if the ride quality starts to deteriorate.

Replacing struts on a vehicle like the 2017 Subaru Exiga is a common maintenance task. Given the struts are an integrated assembly, the replacement typically involves swapping out the entire unit rather than servicing individual internal components. This means the coil spring and shock absorber are replaced together to maintain suspension geometry and performance.

When servicing or replacing the struts, it's also wise to check other components of the suspension system such as bushings, ball joints, and wheel alignment. A fresh set of struts can restore the vehicle's handling to its original crispness, improve ride comfort, and extend tyre life by ensuring even wear.

For anyone servicing their 2017 Subaru Exiga, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended intervals for suspension inspection. While Subaru doesn't typically specify a strict kilometre limit for strut replacement, many mechanics suggest having them checked around the 100,000-kilometre mark or sooner if symptoms develop. Regular inspection helps avoid further damage to suspension components and keeps the vehicle safe on the road.

In terms of DIY maintenance, it's best to leave strut removal and replacement to professional mechanics. The job requires special tools like spring compressors and alignment equipment to safely handle the tension of the coil spring and to maintain the vehicle's handling characteristics post-installation. Attempting to replace struts without the right tools and knowledge can be dangerous and may lead to improper suspension operation.

In practical terms, keeping the 2017 Subaru Exiga's front struts in good condition means better control on wet and uneven roads, more enjoyable rides during family trips, and preserving the value of the vehicle over time. Since the Exiga is a multi-passenger vehicle, good suspension performance also helps reduce driver fatigue on long journeys, making every trip safer and more comfortable.

So, while struts aren't part of every suspension corner on the Subaru Exiga, they definitely play a key role in the front suspension setup. Staying on top of their condition and replacing them when needed is a smart move for any Subaru Exiga owner keen to keep their vehicle running smoothly and safely.