Parts for your 2017 Subaru Legacy-Control arms

Understanding and Maintaining Control Arms on the 2017 Subaru Legacy

The 2017 Subaru Legacy is a solid and reliable vehicle that offers a smooth and comfortable driving experience. A key component contributing to this smooth ride is the control arm, which plays an important role in the car's suspension system. If you're curious about whether the 2017 Subaru Legacy uses control arms, the answer is yes. Control arms are very much a part of its front and rear suspension setups, helping maintain proper wheel alignment and providing stability on the road.

Control arms are essential to most modern vehicles including the 2017 Subaru Legacy because they connect the wheel hub and steering knuckle to the vehicle's frame or body. This connection allows the wheels to move up and down while keeping them in alignment with the vehicle, which is important for safe handling, braking, and overall ride comfort. Typically, control arms are made of steel or aluminium and come in different designs including A-shaped, L-shaped or straight arm styles.

The 2017 Subaru Legacy utilises lower control arms in its front suspension and commonly also employs control arms in the rear suspension, depending on the trim and market specifications. These control arms house rubber or polyurethane bushings and ball joints that allow controlled movement and absorb some road vibrations and impacts. By allowing the suspension components to pivot properly, control arms improve both ride quality and steering responsiveness.

One of the main purposes of control arms is to keep the wheels firmly planted on the road while allowing enough flexibility to absorb bumps and uneven surfaces. This ensures that the suspension can do its job in maintaining tyre contact with the road, which is critical for traction and safety. Without properly functioning control arms, the vehicle might experience poor handling, uneven tyre wear, and even unsafe driving conditions.

When it comes to servicing the control arms on a 2017 Subaru Legacy, regular checks are a smart move. Over time, the bushings and ball joints in the control arms wear out due to constant movement and stress from road conditions and weather. Worn bushings can lead to clunking noises, excessive play in the steering, and a rougher ride. Ignoring these symptoms can cause further damage to the suspension and steering components.

Here are a few tips for maintaining or replacing control arms on your 2017 Subaru Legacy:

• Watch for unusual noises, such as knocking or clunking coming from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps or during turns.
• Check the alignment regularly. If the vehicle pulls to one side or the tyres wear unevenly, worn control arms or bushings might be the culprit.
• Have the control arms and related components inspected during routine maintenance or if you notice any strange handling behaviour.
• If the bushings or ball joints show excessive wear or damage, it's a good idea to replace the affected control arm assembly rather than just the bushings for optimal safety and performance.
• Seek professional help for alignment after control arm replacement to make sure everything is set correctly for smooth and safe driving.

Replacing control arms isn't typically an everyday task but it is necessary over the lifespan of a vehicle. The 2017 Subaru Legacy's suspension is designed for durability, but rough roads, harsh conditions, or accidents can cause premature wear. Investing in quality replacement control arms helps maintain the performance and safety standards Subaru is known for.

DIY enthusiasts can manage some aspects of control arm maintenance if equipped with the right tools and knowledge. However, since control arms affect steering and suspension geometry, many choose to leave replacements to professional mechanics with access to vehicle-specific tools and alignment equipment. Proper installation and setup are crucial to avoid future problems and to get the best from the vehicle's handling capabilities.

In short, the 2017 Subaru Legacy does use control arms as an integral part of its suspension system. They help keep the ride smooth, the handling precise, and the tyres wearing evenly. Paying attention to these components during servicing ensures the vehicle remains safe and comfortable to drive for many thousands of kilometres. When it comes to control arms, regular inspections and timely replacements are the way to go for owners who want to maintain their Legacy in tip-top condition.