Parts for your 2017 Subaru Outback-Strut mounts

Strut Mounts on the 2017 Subaru Outback: What You Should Know

For owners and enthusiasts of the 2017 Subaru Outback, understanding the suspension system is key to maintaining a smooth and safe ride. One common area of interest is the strut mount - does the 2017 Outback even have them, and if so, why do they matter? The answer lies in the design of Subaru's suspension on this particular model and how it impacts the vehicle's handling, comfort, and servicing needs.

To start with, yes, the 2017 Subaru Outback is fitted with strut mounts. The Outback uses a MacPherson strut front suspension setup, which is typical for many vehicles in its class. This means that there are indeed strut mounts involved as part of the front suspension architecture. Strut mounts are absolutely relevant components for this vehicle's front suspension system, whereas the rear suspension uses a multi-link setup with separate shock absorbers and coil springs, which means strut mounts are not fitted at the rear.

So what exactly are strut mounts, and why should Outback owners care about them? Simply put, the strut mount is the part that connects the strut assembly to the vehicle chassis. It serves a couple of crucial purposes. Firstly, it acts as a secure mounting point, holding the suspension components firmly in place. Secondly, and just as importantly, it helps to isolate the road vibrations and noise from the cabin. Because the strut mount sits between the vehicle's body and the suspension, it often incorporates a bearing or a rubber insulator to absorb shocks and reduce harshness you might otherwise feel when driving over rough surfaces.

For the 2017 Outback, the design of the strut mount contributes significantly to the vehicle's characteristic smooth ride and stable handling. By effectively cushioning impacts, the strut mounts aid in improving comfort, especially during longer trips on uneven terrain or country roads - which many Aussie drivers tend to encounter. They also play a role in allowing the front wheels to turn easily when steering because many strut mounts include a bearing that helps the strut rotate with the wheel.

Given their vital role, it's important for Subaru Outback owners to keep their strut mounts in good shape as part of regular suspension maintenance. Over time, these mounts can wear out or deteriorate due to exposure to the elements, heat, and constant movement of suspension parts. Common symptoms that may indicate strut mount issues include strange knocking sounds from the front suspension, increased vibration felt through the steering wheel, uneven tyre wear, or a decrease in ride comfort.

Replacing strut mounts at the right time is a smart move to ensure the suspension performs optimally. In many cases, mechanics recommend inspecting the strut mounts whenever the struts or shocks are replaced, which for a Subaru Outback is typically around every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres depending on driving conditions. If strut mounts show signs of cracking, excessive wear, or bearing failure, it's best to replace them along with the struts to avoid future problems and save on labour costs.

Maintenance tips for strut mounts on the 2017 Subaru Outback include having them checked during regular service intervals and paying attention to how the car handles as it ages. If you notice anything unusual like clunks during cornering, increased noise from the front end, or more vibration than usual, get your suspension inspected sooner rather than later. Keep in mind that worn strut mounts can also affect wheel alignment, which leads to poor handling and accelerated tyre wear.

One advantage of the Subaru Outback's strut mount design is its relative ease of access, meaning replacement doesn't usually require too much disassembly beyond the front strut assembly. However, it's still a job best left to experienced technicians unless you are familiar with suspension work, as improper installation can lead to further suspension problems or safety risks.

So for anyone servicing their 2017 Subaru Outback, paying attention to the condition of strut mounts is part of looking after the overall health of the vehicle's suspension. They might not be the most glamorous components, but without well-functioning strut mounts, the ride quality, steering precision, and noise levels will definitely suffer. Keeping these mounts in good nick supports the Outback's well-earned reputation as a comfortable, reliable, and versatile wagon for Aussie roads.