Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Sway bars & links

2017 Subaru Forester sway-bars-&-links: purpose and servicing

Per the Subaru 2017 Forester (SJ) Service Manual (Front and Rear Suspension – Stabiliser sections) and Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue, the 2017 Forester is fitted with front and rear stabiliser (sway) bars and corresponding end links. So yes—sway-bars-&-links are absolutely relevant on this model.

The sway-bar (also called an anti-roll bar) works to reduce body roll in corners, keeping the Forester flatter through bends and giving the driver a calmer, more predictable feel. The end links connect the bar to the suspension arms or struts, transmitting the twist of the bar as the left and right wheels move differently over bumps or through turns. On uneven roads, the set-up helps keep tyres planted, sharpening steering response and stability without drastically affecting ride comfort.

As part of servicing a 2017 Subaru Forester, it’s smart to include sway-bars-&-links in routine inspections. Rubber or polyurethane bushes that hold the bar can harden, crack or squeak with age. End links can develop play in their ball joints, split boots, or loosen off after rough use. While there’s no fixed replacement interval, many owners see bush or link wear somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km, depending on driving, loads and local road conditions. Coastal areas in Australia and New Zealand can accelerate corrosion on fasteners and link studs, so periodic checks matter.

• Tell-tale signs: clunks or knocks over speed bumps, a hollow squeak from the front or rear, increased body roll, or a vague “floaty” feeling when changing lanes.
• Service tips: inspect bushes and links at each service, replace in axle pairs when wear is present, torque link and bush hardware at normal ride height to avoid preloading bushes, use the correct lubricant (silicone-based for many polyurethane bushes, none for most OEM rubber), and recheck fasteners after a short shakedown drive.

Upgrades or replacements should match bar diameter and bushing size for the specific Forester variant. Quality OEM-equivalent links are typically quiet and long-lasting, heavy-duty links can be worthwhile if the vehicle regularly tows or sees corrugated roads. An alignment isn’t usually required for sway-bar link or bush replacement alone, but it’s wise to check alignment if any other suspension fasteners are loosened or if handling still feels off afterwards. Done right, fresh sway-bars-&-links help the SJ Forester track straight, corner neatly and stay composed on the daily commute or a weekend run over country roads.

FAQ: Does the 2017 Subaru Forester have front and rear sway-bars-&-links?

Yes. Technical documentation for the SJ-series Forester specifies stabiliser (sway) bars and end links at both ends. Bar sizes and tuning can vary by trim, but every 2017 Forester runs a front and a rear bar with link assemblies.

FAQ: How often should sway-bars-&-links be checked or replaced?

Have them inspected at each service, or roughly every 10,000–15,000 km. Replace when there’s play in link joints, torn boots, crushed or cracked bushes, or persistent clunks/squeaks. Many owners see wear anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 km, depending on use and conditions.

FAQ: Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing sway bar links or bushes?

Not typically. Sway bar work doesn’t change alignment angles on the Forester. If you’ve loosened other suspension hardware or the steering still feels off after repairs, get an alignment check for peace of mind.