Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Ball joints

2017 Subaru Forester ball joints — fitment, purpose, and service advice

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Subaru Forester does use ball joints. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the SJ Forester (Front Suspension section) shows a MacPherson-strut front end with a lower control arm and a front lower ball joint. Subaru’s parts catalogue lists a dedicated front lower ball joint for this model range, and reputable aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Sankei 555 and MOOG) supply direct-fit replacements for 2014–2018 Forester. So, ball joints are absolutely relevant to the 2017 Subaru Forester.

On this Forester, the front lower ball joint is the pivot that links the steering knuckle to the lower control arm. It lets the front wheels steer left and right while the suspension moves up and down — all without binding. As a safety-critical joint, it keeps the hub located accurately, helping the steering feel tidy and the tyres wear nice and even.

Because the joint is sealed and greaseless, the main enemy is a torn dust boot or water ingress. Once grit gets past the boot, wear ramps up quickly. Typical signs the Forester’s ball joints are on the way out include:

• Clunks or creaks over bumps or when turning at low speed
• Vague steering, tramlining, or a pull
• Uneven or accelerated tyre wear on the front
• Play noticed during a wheel shake test

As part of regular servicing in Australia and New Zealand conditions, it’s smart to check the ball joint boots and free play at each service, and be extra vigilant from around 80,000–100,000 km or if the vehicle sees corrugations, unsealed roads, or kerb strikes. There’s no fixed replacement interval — they’re replaced on condition.

When replacement is due, a quality OEM-equivalent joint is the go. Technicians will typically renew the pinch bolt at the knuckle, clean corrosion from the bore, and torque everything to spec. It’s good practice to replace both sides on the same axle to keep steering feel consistent. A wheel alignment afterwards is recommended, as removing and refitting suspension components can nudge camber or toe. Don’t attempt to lube the joint — if it’s noisy or loose, it’s time to swap it out. With fresh ball joints, the Forester steers sharper, tracks straighter, and treats its front tyres far better. Easy win for safety and feel.

How often should the 2017 Subaru Forester’s ball joints be inspected?

Have them checked at every service. Pay closer attention after rough-road trips, pothole hits, or once the odometer ticks past 80,000–100,000 km. There’s no set change interval — replace on condition.

What are the common signs of worn ball joints on a 2017 Forester?

Listen for clunks over bumps, feel for looseness or wander in the steering, and look for uneven front tyre wear. A mechanic can confirm by checking for free play with the wheel raised.

Can the Forester’s ball joints be replaced separately from the control arm?

Yes. On the 2017 Forester SJ, the front lower ball joint is a separate service part. A competent workshop can press out the old joint, fit the new one, secure the pinch bolt, and then carry out an alignment check.