Parts for your 2017 Subaru Legacy-Struts

2017 Subaru Legacy (Liberty) Struts — What they do and when to service them

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Subaru Legacy (sold as Liberty in Australia and New Zealand) uses MacPherson struts on the front axle and separate shock absorbers with a double-wishbone setup at the rear. This layout is specified in the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the BN/BS platform (2015–2019 Legacy/Outback), in Subaru Australia’s MY17 Liberty specifications, and is reflected in major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., KYB and Monroe list front struts and rear shocks). So, “struts” are relevant to the front end only on this model.

Up front, the MacPherson strut is a combined damper and structural component. It supports the vehicle’s weight, locates the wheel, and controls vertical motion, helping the Legacy steer crisply and brake predictably. The strut mates the coil spring, damper cartridge, and top mount (bearing plate) into one compact unit, which is why front-end ride and steering feel are so closely tied to strut health.

As part of regular servicing, front struts deserve a look for leaks, dented tubes, split dust boots, or perished bump stops. Road feel going a bit floaty, extra body roll, poor turn-in, a knock over sharp bumps, or cupped/feathered tyres are all red flags. Braking that makes the nose dive more than usual, or a steering wheel that wanders on the motorway, can also point to tired struts or worn top mounts.

There’s no hard-and-fast expiry, but many owners see best results replacing front struts somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 km, sooner if the car tows, sees rough roads, or runs heavy loads. When it’s time, it’s smart to:

• Replace struts in pairs and consider new top mounts, bearings, boots, and bump stops.
• Inspect front springs for corrosion or sag, and check stabiliser links and lower control arm bushes while there.
• Book a four-wheel alignment after any strut work—camber and caster can shift when a strut is disturbed.
• Use proper spring compressors if disassembling, the stored energy is no joke—many prefer complete loaded strut assemblies for safety and speed.
• Torque the top nut and lower bolts to spec from the Subaru service manual to avoid clunks or premature wear.

Looking after the front struts keeps the Legacy/Liberty riding comfortably, braking straight, and treating its tyres kindly—exactly what’s wanted for Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Does the 2017 Subaru Legacy have struts or shocks?

It runs MacPherson struts at the front and conventional shock absorbers with a double-wishbone arrangement at the rear. This mix gives tidy steering response up front and good compliance out back.

How often should the front struts be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval. Many cars benefit from replacement between 80,000–150,000 km depending on road conditions, load, and driving style. Check for leaks, knocks, extra body roll, and uneven tyre wear during routine services.

Do front struts need an alignment afterwards?

Yes. Removing/refitting a strut can alter camber and caster. A four-wheel alignment restores proper geometry, ensuring even tyre wear and stable steering.