Parts for your 2018 Subaru Forester-Struts

2018 Subaru Forester struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references — including the Subaru 2018 Forester (SJ) Service Manual (Chassis/Suspension), Subaru New Model/Technical Guide for the SJ series, and major parts catalogues from KYB and Monroe — the 2018 Subaru Forester uses MacPherson struts on the front axle. The rear is a double-wishbone suspension with separate coil spring and shock absorber, not a strut. So “struts” are absolutely relevant to the front of this vehicle, while the rear uses conventional shocks.

On the front of a 2018 Forester, the MacPherson strut is the backbone of the suspension. It supports the vehicle’s weight, locates the hub and wheel, damps bumps, and helps set alignment angles like camber. In plain terms, good front struts keep steering precise, braking stable, and tyres wearing evenly — whether it’s the school run, the motorway, or a gravel road to the bach.

There’s no strict replacement interval, but a sensible approach for Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to have the front struts inspected at every service and more closely every 20,000 km. Many owners find they’re ready anywhere from 80,000 to 120,000 km, sooner if the car sees corrugations, towing, or pothole-heavy commutes. Age matters too — seals and rubber mounts harden over 6–10 years even on lower‑kilometre cars.

• Signs it’s time: oil seepage on the strut body, knocking over bumps, front-end float or “boaty” feel, nose-dive under brakes, uneven or cupped front tyre wear, and longer stopping distances.
• Handy service tips: replace in pairs, fit new top mounts/bearings, bump stops and dust boots, and check sway bar links and lower arm bushes while you’re there. Always finish with a wheel alignment. If a WOF/roadworthy is due, note that leaking or loose struts can lead to a fail.

Quality matters. Genuine Subaru, KYB or Monroe OE-style units are popular because they’re tuned for the Forester’s weight and geometry. After installation, an alignment resets camber, caster and toe so the steering feels centred and the tyres wear nicely. A short post-fitment check after a few hundred kilometres (torque and leaks) is a good belt-and-braces step to keep everything sorted.

Popular questions about 2018 Subaru Forester struts

Does the 2018 Forester have rear struts?
No — the rear uses a double-wishbone layout with a separate shock absorber and spring. Only the front end uses MacPherson struts, as outlined in Subaru’s service literature and common parts catalogues.

When should the front struts be replaced?
There’s no hard rule, but many see best results replacing between 80,000 and 120,000 km, or earlier if there’s leakage, knocking, poor control, or uneven tyre wear. Regular checks each service keep surprises at bay.

Can upgraded struts improve ride or lift the car?
Upgraded struts can sharpen control, but ride height mostly comes from the springs. For a lift, a matched spring/strut or spacer kit is needed, followed by alignment and local compliance checks where required.