Parts for your 2018 Subaru Exiga-Struts

Understanding the Role of Struts in the 2018 Subaru Exiga

The 2018 Subaru Exiga is designed with a focus on comfort, stability and safety, which means its suspension system plays a crucial role in delivering a smooth ride. When it comes to the suspension setup, the question often comes up about whether this vehicle uses struts or not.

After referencing Subaru's technical specifications and reliable automotive sources, it's clear that the 2018 Subaru Exiga is equipped with traditional shock absorbers paired with coil springs rather than what are widely known as struts on both the front and rear suspension. This is a key point because struts and shock absorbers, although similar in function, are not exactly the same components.

So why does the 2018 Subaru Exiga not use struts? Simply put, Subaru's engineers have opted for a suspension design that separates the shock absorption and structural support roles. In many vehicles, struts serve a dual purpose: they act as the shock absorber and also provide structural support for the suspension system, particularly in MacPherson strut setups commonly found in front suspensions. However, the Exiga uses a multilink rear suspension and a double wishbone or similar design at the front that allows these components to be separate. This setup offers better handling and ride refinement by optimising each part's function individually.

Because the Exiga uses shock absorbers instead of struts, it generally offers benefits such as improved ride comfort and durability. The shock absorbers can be specially tuned to absorb bump impacts and road irregularities without needing to carry the structural load, which is instead supported by the control arms and other suspension parts. This separation can lead to more precise suspension tuning and enhanced driving dynamics.

An added advantage for owners is that shock absorbers are often easier and less costly to replace than struts because they are simpler components and don't need to be aligned as part of the suspension geometry when swapped out.

However, for those who want to know about the strut components because there is some confusion about terminology, here is a general overview of what struts do, why they matter, and how maintenance or replacement would typically be done in vehicles that do have them. This way, Subaru Exiga owners better understand the concepts even if their ride uses shocks.

Struts serve as a critical component in many cars. They combine the functions of a shock absorber with structural support for the suspension. This means they not only dampen the impact from bumps and rough roads but also help hold the weight of the vehicle and maintain wheel alignment and ride height. Essentially, struts are a key part of a car's suspension system and contribute to both ride comfort and vehicle control.

Because struts influence both handling and comfort, they are designed to last a long time but they do wear out. Signs of worn struts can include clunking noises over bumps, excessive bouncing after driving over potholes or speed humps, uneven tyre wear, and a general feeling of instability or floatiness while driving. If any of these symptoms appear, it's a good idea to get a professional mechanic to inspect the suspension.

When it comes to maintaining or replacing struts, it's usually advised to inspect them every 50,000 to 70,000 kilometres, although this depends on driving habits and road conditions. Rough or unsealed roads common in Australia can put extra wear on suspension parts, so more frequent checks might be needed.

Replacing struts is a job best left to professionals as it often involves disassembling other suspension components and requires specialised tools for safety and accuracy. After replacement, an alignment check is necessary to ensure the vehicle handles correctly and tyres wear evenly.

While the 2018 Subaru Exiga does not use struts, knowing about these components helps understand the suspension system better. Because this model utilises separate shock absorbers and springs, regular maintenance still matters. Checking for leaks, damage or unusual noises from shocks can help maintain the Exiga's smooth and stable ride.

Owners can also benefit from regular wheel alignments and tyre monitoring as part of standard servicing schedules. Keeping the suspension system in good shape not only prolongs the life of the shocks but also makes sure the vehicle remains safe and enjoyable to drive.

So while the word struts might not apply directly to the Subaru Exiga's setup, the underlying principles of suspension care and maintenance are just as important. Taking a proactive approach to suspension checks and servicing helps keep the Exiga ready for anything Australian roads can throw at it, ensuring every drive is comfy and controlled.