Parts for your 2017 Subaru Legacy-Strut mounts

Understanding and Maintaining the Strut Mounts on a 2017 Subaru Legacy

The 2017 Subaru Legacy features a suspension setup that includes strut mounts, a small but crucial component often overlooked by many drivers. Strut mounts play an essential role in linking the suspension strut assembly to the vehicle's chassis, ensuring a smooth ride and precise handling. If you own a 2017 Legacy, it helps to know what strut mounts do and why keeping them in good condition is part of smart vehicle maintenance.

Strut mounts are positioned at the top of the strut assembly in the front suspension. They serve two primary functions. Firstly, they act as the connection point between the suspension struts and the body of the car. This means they help hold everything in place as the wheels move up and down over bumps and uneven roads. Secondly, strut mounts are designed to absorb some of the shock and vibrations that travel from the road through the wheels and suspension, reducing the amount of noise and harshness felt inside the cabin.

In the 2017 Subaru Legacy, the suspension uses MacPherson struts at the front, making strut mounts a necessary component. Without these mounts, the strut rods would have no proper anchor points on the vehicle chassis, and the suspension would not function properly. The mounts also include a bearing, which allows the strut to pivot when turning the steering wheel, helping with smooth steering and handling response.

Because the strut mounts take on a lot of stress and are always working, they can wear out over time. This wear can lead to a variety of problems for the driver, such as unusual noises like clunking or creaking from the front suspension area, especially when driving over bumps or turning the steering wheel. You might also notice increased vibrations or a sense that the car's steering is less sharp or less responsive than usual.

Replacing or maintaining strut mounts is especially important as part of a regular servicing schedule for the 2017 Subaru Legacy. When your mechanic checks your suspension, they will typically inspect the strut mounts for signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Ignoring faulty strut mounts can lead to uneven tyre wear, reduced ride comfort, and even affect the vehicle's alignment and handling characteristics, which can become a safety issue.

So, when is the right time to replace strut mounts on the Legacy? Unlike tyres, strut mounts do not have a fixed lifespan but tend to last between 80,000 to 120,000 kilometres depending on driving conditions. Rough roads, heavy loads or aggressive driving can shorten their lifespan. If a driver experiences any of the symptoms mentioned or if the suspension is being rebuilt or the struts themselves are being replaced, it's generally a good idea to replace the strut mounts at the same time. This ensures the whole assembly is working perfectly together and can save on labour costs down the track.

Routine maintenance tips for strut mounts also include checking for oil leaks around the strut area since leaks can affect the mount's durability. Listening carefully for noises when driving over bumps or turning, and watching for changes in steering feel are practical ways to catch early issues. While strut mounts are not a high-maintenance item like engine oil or air filters, they definitely benefit from periodic checks by a qualified mechanic.

Overall, if you want to keep your 2017 Subaru Legacy driving smoothly and safely, paying attention to the condition of your strut mounts is a good move. They quietly do their job every day, so giving them some love during suspension servicing will help keep your ride comfortable and your steering sharp, making every drive a bit more enjoyable.