Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2017 Subaru Forester: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Subaru Forester, like many modern SUVs, is equipped with a range of suspension components designed to offer a smooth ride while maintaining control and safety on diverse terrain. Among these components are bump-stops, often overlooked but important parts of the suspension system. If you're wondering whether your 2017 Forester comes fitted with bump-stops, or if you should give them a bit of attention during servicing, this guide will walk you through the basics.

Bump-stops are small but essential rubber or polyurethane components placed within a vehicle's suspension system. Their job is to prevent the suspension from compressing too far during heavy impacts or when the vehicle hits a big pothole, speed bump, or rough patch of road. By acting as a physical barrier, bump-stops protect vital suspension parts such as shock absorbers, control arms, and springs from damage that could be costly to repair.

On the 2017 Subaru Forester, bump-stops are indeed a standard part of the suspension setup. Subaru uses bump-stops on both the front and rear suspension to ensure that the vehicle's suspension travel stays within safe limits. This is particularly important for the Forester, which is frequently used in off-road or adventurous conditions where suspension travel can be pushed to its limits.

When you take the Forester over rugged terrain, the suspension compresses significantly to absorb bumps and maintain tyre contact with the ground. Without bump-stops, the suspension components could bottom out completely, leading to metal-on-metal contact within the suspension assembly. This not only causes a jarring and uncomfortable ride but also risks bending or breaking parts, potentially affecting vehicle safety and performance.

Essentially, bump-stops act like a cushion at the end of the suspension stroke. They make the ride feel more controlled, and keep the vehicle's chassis protected from harsh impacts. For a vehicle like the Forester, which is designed to handle both urban and off-road environments, bump-stops help strike a balance between comfort and rugged capability.

Now, when it comes to looking after your bump-stops, they are generally low maintenance parts. However, because they are made from rubber or polyurethane, they do degrade over time. Factors like exposure to dirt, moisture, heat, and frequent heavy compression can cause bump-stops to crack, harden, or even break down. When this happens, their ability to soften impacts and protect the suspension is reduced.

It's a good idea to have your bump-stops checked as part of your regular car servicing or suspension inspection. Mechanics will typically visually inspect the bump-stops when checking other suspension components like shocks and struts. They look for signs of damage such as cracks, pieces missing, or excessive hardening.

Replacing bump-stops isn't usually expensive or overly complicated. Many local workshops or Subaru dealers stock replacement bump-stops for the Forester. Installation involves removing the suspension components controlling access to the bump-stop, so it's best done by a professional with the right tools and knowledge. If one bump-stop is damaged or worn, it's often recommended to replace the pair on the same axle to maintain balanced suspension performance.

Ignoring bump-stop maintenance can lead to bigger problems down the track. Without effective bump-stops, repeated harsh impacts may cause suspension wear or damage that will cost a lot more to fix. Plus, it can seriously affect how the vehicle handles, especially if you're taking your Forester on rough roads or trails where suspension compression is common.

For Forester owners who enjoy off-roading or tackling rougher terrain, bump-stops are especially worth paying some attention to. Even if the bumps and dips on the road seem minor, the cumulative effect over thousands of kilometres can wear these parts down. Knowing your vehicle has safe and functioning bump-stops offers peace of mind that your suspension is being properly protected, helping your Forester perform the way it was designed to.

In short, the 2017 Subaru Forester does come with bump-stops fitted as part of the suspension design. While they don't get much spotlight, they play an important role in protecting the suspension from damage during heavy compressions. Keeping them in good condition through periodic inspection and replacement when worn or damaged is a smart move for any Forester owner. That way, the vehicle stays comfy, safe, and ready for whatever road or track lies ahead.