Parts for your 2017 Subaru Outback-Suspension bushes

Suspension Bushes on the 2017 Subaru Outback: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the suspension system of the 2017 Subaru Outback, suspension bushes play an important role in keeping the ride smooth and handling responsive. These small but vital components are fitted throughout the suspension and act as cushions between metal parts, absorbing shocks and reducing noise and vibrations from the road.

Suspension bushes are typically made from rubber or polyurethane and are found at various pivot points in the suspension setup, including control arms, sway bars, and trailing arms. The 2017 Subaru Outback, which features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension, uses suspension bushes extensively to ensure a comfortable ride and reliable handling.

The purpose of suspension bushes is to provide a flexible mounting point that isolates the vehicle's body from the harshness of the road. Without these bushes, metal components would make direct contact, causing excessive noise, wear and tear, and a harsher driving experience. For example, bushes help in absorbing bumps and vibrations, preventing them from being transmitted to the cabin, which makes driver and passengers feel more comfortable during their journey.

In the 2017 Subaru Outback, the suspension bushes also help maintain proper alignment of the suspension components. This is crucial for good wheel tracking, improved tyre wear, and ensuring the vehicle handles predictably when cornering or driving on uneven surfaces. Worn or damaged bushes can lead to sloppy handling, a vague steering feel, uneven tyre wear and increased noise from the suspension area.

As part of regular maintenance, it's a good idea to have the suspension bushes inspected during servicing. While bushes are designed to last many years, factors like harsh road conditions, off-road use, or simply the ageing process can lead to cracks, splits or hardening of the rubber. When that happens, the cushioning effect is compromised, leading to poorer ride quality and possible further damage to suspension components.

Replacing worn suspension bushes on a 2017 Subaru Outback should ideally be done as a pair or in sets, depending on the area of suspension affected. Doing this helps maintain even performance and prevents uneven wear from causing new problems. It's important to source genuine or high-quality aftermarket suspension bushes to ensure durability and proper fit.

It's also worth noting that some Outback owners may choose to upgrade their suspension bushes, swapping the standard rubber for polyurethane variants. These can offer firmer support, improved handling response and better longevity in demanding conditions, but sometimes at the expense of increased noise and harshness.

When servicing the suspension bushes on a 2017 Subaru Outback, technicians will typically inspect the condition visually and by checking for excessive play in suspension joints. If any noise such as creaking or clunking is noticed during driving, it could be a sign that the bushes are worn out. A comprehensive suspension check may also include looking at associated components like ball joints, struts and sway bar links as these all work together to provide stable handling.

Maintaining healthy suspension bushes on the 2017 Subaru Outback contributes to safer driving, better ride comfort, and can prolong the life of suspension components and tyres. Regular inspections and timely replacement when needed means drivers can continue enjoying the vehicle's smooth, confident drive whether cruising on highways or exploring rougher terrain.