Parts for your 2017 Subaru Xv-Strut mounts

2017 Subaru XV strut mounts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Subaru technical literature, strut mounts are absolutely fitted to the 2017 Subaru XV. The Subaru Workshop Manual (STIS) for Impreza/XV GP series (2012–2017) specifies a MacPherson strut front suspension, which uses a dedicated strut top mount with an integrated bearing. Subaru’s electronic parts catalogue (Subaru FAST) for the GP7 XV also lists the front strut mount/strut top and related upper spring seat components. These sources confirm the 2017 XV relies on strut mounts at the front, with the rear using a shock top mount suited to its multi-link layout.

On a 2017 Subaru XV, the front strut mounts (often called strut tops) sit at the top of the MacPherson struts and do two big jobs: they isolate road vibration and noise from the cabin, and they allow the front struts to rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. Inside each mount is a rubber insulator to soak up harshness and a bearing plate so the spring and strut can turn freely. When they’re fresh, steering feels light and precise, and the ride stays nice and quiet over rough Kiwi and Aussie roads.

As the kilometres rack up, the rubber can harden or crack and the bearing can dry out or pit. Common signs the XV’s strut mounts are tired include:

• Clunks, knocks or creaks over speed bumps or driveway lips
• Groaning or spring “twang” when turning at low speed
• Heavier, notchy steering or a wandering feel
• Uneven tyre wear that isn’t fixed by a basic alignment

There’s no strict replacement interval, but many owners see wear appear somewhere around 80,000–120,000 km, earlier if the car does lots of corrugations or carries extra weight. Best practice during servicing is to inspect the mounts any time the front suspension is apart, or when fitting new shocks/struts or springs. If the struts are being replaced, throwing in new OEM-quality strut mounts and upper seats saves double labour later and helps your fresh dampers perform at their best.

A proper job means using spring compressors, aligning the mount correctly, torquing the top nut to spec, and finishing with a wheel alignment to tidy up caster/camber changes. If there’s steering noise, a quick check of the mount bearing for smooth rotation with the car lifted can catch problems early. Quality parts, correct install, and an alignment will keep the XV tracking straight and riding quietly for many more kilometres.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru XV strut mounts

How long do strut mounts typically last on a 2017 Subaru XV?
Many owners get 80,000–120,000 km before noticeable wear, but life varies with road quality and load. City cars on smoother tarmac may go longer, while vehicles that see unsealed roads or lots of speed bumps can wear mounts sooner. If you’re changing struts around that mileage, it’s smart to renew the mounts at the same time.

What noises point to worn strut mounts on an XV?
Listen for a knock or clunk over bumps, a creak when turning into a park, or a spring “ping” as you wind on steering at low speed. Those noises can also come from sway bar links or top hat bearings, so a mechanic should isolate the source by checking play and rotation at the mount with the suspension unloaded.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Any work that disturbs the front struts can nudge camber and caster. A post-replacement wheel alignment ensures the XV tracks straight, the steering wheel sits centred, and tyre wear stays even. It’s a small cost that protects your tyres and keeps handling tidy.