Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Shock absorbers

2017 Subaru Forester shock absorbers

Based on technical sources including the Subaru Forester Owner’s Manual (2017, Specifications), the Subaru Service Manual for the SJ chassis (Suspension section), and the MY17 Subaru Forester brochure from Subaru Australia, the 2017 Forester is fitted with shock absorbers. It runs a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double‑wishbone rear with coil springs and gas‑charged dampers, so shock absorbers are absolutely relevant to this model.

On the 2017 Forester, shock absorbers (dampers) keep the tyres planted, control body movement, and smooth out bumps on corrugations and city potholes alike. They work with the springs to manage rebound and compression, so the wagon steers predictably, brakes straight, and doesn’t bounce around on rough Kiwi backroads or Aussie highways. Healthy shocks protect more than comfort—they help the ABS, stability control, and AWD system do their best work by keeping contact patches consistent.

As part of regular servicing, shocks deserve a look every 20,000 km or 12 months. A technician should check for oil seepage, dented bodies, damaged dust boots, perished bushings, and uneven tyre wear. A quick bounce test can hint at issues, but road testing over speed humps and undulations tells the real story. Expect service life to vary with conditions and load, many Foresters see 80,000–150,000 km before damping fades noticeably, sooner if they tow, carry gear, or live on gravel.

When replacement time comes, best practice is to replace in axle pairs to keep handling balanced. On the front, the Forester uses complete strut assemblies, so consider renewing top mounts, bearings, bump stops, and boots at the same time. At the rear, inspect the control arm bushings, sway‑bar links, and spring seats. After any shock or strut work, a four‑wheel alignment is a must to protect tyres and keep steering feel tidy. Quality, OE‑equivalent gas shocks will restore ride and control without making it harsh, and they’ll play nicely with stock ride height and EyeSight safety systems where fitted.

• Common signs they’re tired: longer braking distances, nose‑diving, rear squatting, floaty or bouncy ride, clunks over bumps, steering shimmy, and cupped tyre wear.
• Helpful extras: fresh sway‑bar links, new top mounts, and alignment after fitment.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Forester shock absorbers

How long do the shocks usually last on a 2017 Forester?
Service life depends on road quality and load. Many owners see solid performance for 80,000–120,000 km, with some stretching to 150,000 km on gentler use. Frequent gravel, towing, and heavy loads can shorten that window. Annual inspections help catch fade before it affects braking and tyre wear.

Do the front and rear need to be replaced in pairs?
Yes. Replace shocks/struts in axle pairs (both fronts or both rears) to keep damping balanced. Mixing an old unit with a new one can cause uneven handling, especially under braking or on mid‑corner bumps.

What symptoms suggest the Forester’s shocks need replacing?
Look for oily residue on the shock body, extra bounce over speed humps, nose‑dive when braking, rear squat when accelerating, steering shimmy, clunks on bumps, and cupped or scalloped tyres. Any of those warrant a proper inspection and likely replacement.