Parts for your 2017 Subaru Xv-Control arms

Control Arms on the 2017 Subaru XV: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Subaru XV, known for its rugged style and reliable performance, definitely comes equipped with control arms as a key part of its suspension system. Control arms play a crucial role in how the vehicle handles the road, providing stability, comfort, and safety. So if you own a 2017 Subaru XV or are thinking about its maintenance, understanding the purpose of control arms and how to care for them is worth your time.

Control arms are essentially the connection points between the car's chassis and the wheels. They help maintain the correct position of the wheels relative to the body, allowing them to move up and down smoothly when driving over bumps or rough terrain. This is particularly important for a vehicle like the Subaru XV, which is often driven off the beaten track or in varying Australian conditions. Properly functioning control arms ensure that the wheels stay aligned and that the suspension performs optimally.

On the 2017 Subaru XV, both the front and rear suspension systems incorporate control arms. The front suspension typically uses lower control arms as part of a MacPherson strut design, which helps keep the steering precise and responsive while absorbing shocks from the road. The rear suspension also features control arms that contribute to keeping the wheels aligned and providing a comfortable ride, especially on uneven surfaces or when carrying loads.

One of the primary jobs of control arms is to allow vertical movement of the wheels without compromising the stability of the vehicle. They achieve this with control arm bushings, which are rubber or polyurethane components that reduce friction and absorb some of the vibration and noise. Over time, these bushings can wear out, leading to loose or clunking suspension noises and poorer handling. If left unchecked, worn control arms or bushings can cause uneven tyre wear and affect the safety of your Subaru XV.

When it comes to replacing or maintaining the control arms on a 2017 Subaru XV, there are a few things to keep in mind. Regular inspections are key, especially since Australian roads can be rough and demanding. Often, during routine service or wheel alignment checks, mechanics will inspect the control arms for signs of wear or damage. Some common symptoms indicating that control arms may need replacement include:

• Unusual noises when going over bumps
• Excessive vibration in the steering wheel
• Loose or imprecise steering feel
• Uneven tyre wear

If any of these symptoms pop up, it's a good idea to get the suspension checked by a qualified mechanic. Replacing control arms usually involves swapping out the old arms along with the bushings and ball joints, if necessary. Using quality parts is important because these components have to withstand a lot of stress just from normal driving.

Maintenance doesn't stop at replacement, though. Keeping your 2017 Subaru XV's suspension components in good nick helps the entire vehicle perform better and last longer. Having the control arms regularly inspected and replaced when needed means smoother driving, safer handling, and less wear and tear on other parts like your tyres and steering system. It also ensures that the all-wheel drive system of the Subaru XV performs correctly since suspension geometry affects power delivery to the wheels.

For those who like to do some light off-roading or frequently drive on rough gravel roads, it's especially important to be mindful of suspension health. Harsh driving conditions can accelerate wear on control arms, making frequent checks even more vital. If your Subaru XV is used for towing, similar care should be taken because extra load puts additional stress on suspension parts.

When servicing your Subaru XV's control arms, mechanics will typically:

1. Lift the car and remove the wheels for better access
2. Inspect the control arms, bushings, and ball joints for cracks, wear, or looseness
3. Check wheel alignment to make sure suspension geometry is within factory specs
4. Replace any worn or damaged parts with OEM or high-quality aftermarket components
5. Test drive the vehicle to ensure the repair fixes any previous handling issues

Owners can help prolong the life of their control arms by avoiding aggressive driving on rough surfaces, keeping tyre pressures correct, and having the vehicle serviced according to Subaru's recommended schedule. Regular wheel alignments are also a smart move, as poor alignment not only affects handling but can increase the stress on suspension parts like control arms.

Overall, control arms are definitely an integral part of the 2017 Subaru XV's suspension system. They ensure that the vehicle handles well across different terrains while keeping passengers comfortable and safe. Taking care of them through regular inspections and timely replacements is a straightforward way to keep your Subaru XV performing at its best. So next time your car heads into the workshop, don't be shy to ask if the control arms were checked or if any attention is needed in that department.