Parts for your 2017 Subaru Legacy-Bump stops

Bump-Stops on the 2017 Subaru Legacy: What They Do and Why They Matter

The 2017 Subaru Legacy is a well-engineered mid-size sedan known for its safety, comfort, and reliable performance. One of the less obvious but important components of its suspension system is the bump-stop. While bump-stops might not get as much attention as shocks or struts, they play a crucial role in the overall driving experience and longevity of the vehicle's suspension.

Put simply, bump-stops are designed to prevent metal-to-metal contact when the suspension reaches the end of its travel. Imagine driving over a rough surface or hitting a pothole hard enough that the suspension compresses fully. Without bump-stops, components like the shocks and struts could slam into the chassis or other suspension parts, causing damage. Bump-stops act like a cushion, absorbing the impact and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness that could otherwise be felt inside the cabin.

For the 2017 Subaru Legacy, bump-stops are definitely fitted as part of the MacPherson strut front suspension and rear multi-link suspension setups. These vehicles feature fairly sophisticated suspension systems aimed at balancing comfort with handling precision. The bump-stops contribute to this by limiting suspension travel just enough to protect components but still allow the wheels to absorb road imperfections effectively.

One reason bump-stops are so relevant on the Legacy is that it is often driven on a range of road surfaces. Whether navigating inner-city potholes, suburban speed humps, or country backroads, the suspension takes a beating. Bump-stops ensure that sudden jarring loads do not cause costly damage to suspension parts or compromise ride quality. So, while they may be small and mostly hidden from view, these little rubber or foam components are vital.

When it comes to replacing or maintaining bump-stops on a 2017 Subaru Legacy, they usually don't get replaced as part of regular service intervals like brake pads or oil filters do. However, they should always be checked during suspension inspections or if unusual noise and harshness are noticed when driving over bumps or rough terrain. Signs that bump-stops might need attention include:

• Clunking noises from the suspension under heavy load
• Excessive harshness or a feeling of the suspension bottoming out
• Visible cracks, wear, or deterioration if the bump-stop is accessible for inspection

Over time, bump-stops can degrade due to exposure to dirt, moisture, and mechanical stress. Rubber bump-stops may crack or become brittle, while foam types can compress and lose their cushioning effect. When a bump-stop fails, the suspension components risk getting damaged under heavy compression, and the vehicle ride quality suffers.

Replacing bump-stops on the 2017 Legacy is not typically complicated but it is best done during a suspension service or shock absorber replacement. Technicians will remove the strut assembly to access the bump-stop and inspect its condition thoroughly. Using OEM (original equipment manufacturer) bump-stops or high-quality aftermarket parts is recommended to ensure proper fit and performance.

One useful tip is to pay attention to local driving conditions. If the Legacy is often used on rougher roads or driven hard, bump-stops might wear out quicker and call for more frequent checks. On smoother, well-maintained roads, they tend to last longer. Despite this, it is good practice to include bump-stop inspection as part of routine suspension servicing every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometres, or whenever shocks and struts are serviced.

Maintaining bump-stops aids in protecting more expensive suspension components, preventing premature wear and costly repairs. Plus, it helps keep the ride comfortable and noise-free. For Subaru Legacy owners who want to keep their vehicle driving smoothly and safely for years, don't overlook these humble little parts.

In short, the 2017 Subaru Legacy definitely uses bump-stops as an integral part of its suspension system. They act as a protective buffer to absorb extreme suspension impacts, reduce noise and harshness, and prevent damage to crucial parts. Regular checks and replacement when needed are key to maintaining your Legacy's well-balanced and comfortable ride.