Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Control arms

Understanding Control Arms on the 2017 Subaru Impreza

The 2017 Subaru Impreza, like many modern vehicles, features a suspension system that includes control arms as a fundamental component. Control arms play a crucial role in connecting the vehicle's chassis to the wheels while allowing for controlled movement, ensuring both comfort and handling. If you own a 2017 Impreza or are thinking of servicing one, understanding what control arms do and when they need attention is pretty important.

Control arms are essentially metal links or arms that connect the car's suspension to the frame or body. On the 2017 Subaru Impreza, these are part of a multi-link front suspension setup and a rear suspension that typically uses a multi-link independent design. The control arms allow the wheels to move up and down when you hit bumps or dips, while also keeping the wheels aligned properly during turns and over rough surfaces. Without sound control arms, your ride quality, handling, and even tyre wear can take a hit.

More than just simple metal pieces, control arms come equipped with bushings and sometimes ball joints at their pivot points. These bushings act as cushions to absorb shocks and vibrations from the road, making the drive smoother. Ball joints allow the wheels to pivot, and together these parts keep your Impreza stable and responsive. Over time, the bushings and ball joints can wear out or degrade due to constant movement, exposure to the elements, and everyday driving forces.

Replacing or maintaining control arms on a 2017 Subaru Impreza isn't usually something you think about every day, but it's worth keeping an eye on. Worn or damaged control arms or bushings can lead to symptoms like clunking noises, uneven tyre wear, poor steering response, or the car pulling to one side. Sometimes, if suspension alignment tweaks don't fix the issue, worn control arm components are the culprit.

Servicing control arms generally means inspecting the bushings and ball joints for wear and tear. Mechanics recommend checking these parts during regular suspension inspections, often when tyres are being rotated or wheel alignments are performed. If the bushings are cracked or the ball joints have excessive play, it's usually best to replace the entire control arm assembly rather than trying to press in new bushings. This approach ensures optimal safety, performance, and longevity.

Choosing the right replacement control arms for the 2017 Subaru Impreza is important. Genuine Subaru parts or quality aftermarket components designed specifically for this model will provide the best fit and durability. The control arms need to be robust enough to handle the forces of daily driving, as well as occasional rough roads or Aussie outback adventures.

Once new control arms are fitted, a proper wheel alignment is essential. This ensures the suspension geometry is set correctly, preventing uneven tyre wear and improving steering feel. After all, a smooth driving experience depends on everything working in harmony, from the control arms to the shocks and struts.

Maintenance doesn't stop once the control arms are replaced. Keeping an eye on the condition of your tyres, listening out for unusual noises when driving over bumps, and noting any changes in steering or vehicle handling can help catch issues early. Regular servicing according to Subaru's recommendations, including inspections of suspension components, will extend the life of your Impreza's control arms and other suspension parts.

In short, the control arms on the 2017 Subaru Impreza are vital for connecting the wheels to the car's body in a flexible but controlled way. They help absorb shocks, allow for steering movement, and keep the vehicle stable and comfortable on the road. While they do take a bit of wear and tear over the years, prompt replacement and proper maintenance make sure your Impreza continues to handle like a dream.

If you notice anything unusual with your Impreza's ride, such as clunks, pulls, or uneven tyre wear, having the control arms checked is a smart move. It's a relatively straightforward fix that can save you from more costly suspension and tyre issues down the track. So when it comes to keeping your 2017 Subaru Impreza driving smoothly, don't forget the humble yet mighty control arms.