Parts for your 2020 Subaru Impreza-Coil springs

2020 Subaru Impreza Coil Springs — What They Do and When to Replace Them

Technical references including the Subaru 2020MY Impreza Service Manual (Chassis/Suspension), Subaru Global Platform technical briefs, and aftermarket fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe confirm that the 2020 Subaru Impreza uses coil springs at both ends: MacPherson struts with coil springs up front and a double-wishbone rear with coil springs and gas dampers. So yes, coil springs are very much relevant on this model.

On the 2020 Impreza, the coil springs carry the vehicle’s weight, set the ride height, and work with the dampers to keep the tyres planted over bumps and during cornering. Good springs mean better steering feel, stable braking, and a comfy, controlled ride on Aussie backroads and Kiwi highways alike.

While coil springs don’t have a fixed replacement interval, they should be inspected at each service (or at least every 20,000 km). Look for rust pitting (especially on coastal cars), flaking paint, cracked or broken coils, and any sign the car sits low on one corner. A spring can fatigue and sag over time, which upsets alignment and tyre wear. If one spring fails, replace in axle pairs to keep handling even left-to-right.

When replacing, it’s smart to renew related hardware: top mounts, insulators, spring seats, dust boots and bump stops. Using a quality spring compressor is essential — stored energy in a compressed spring can be dangerous. Many workshops opt for complete strut assemblies where available to save time and avoid reusing tired mounts. After any spring or strut work, book a four-wheel alignment, ride height changes will shift toe and camber. On the Impreza, front camber is typically set with cam bolts, while toe is fully adjustable.

For rough roads, loads of weekend gear, or frequent gravel, consider springs and dampers matched to those conditions. Avoid mixing one new spring with three old ones, and skip cutting or heating springs — it’s unsafe and will fail a WOF/roadworthy. Sticking to OEM-spec or reputable aftermarket options keeps the Impreza’s balanced feel intact.

• Common symptoms of tired springs: uneven ride height, clunks over bumps, bouncy ride, steering that won’t track straight, and accelerated or uneven tyre wear.
• Service tip: torque suspension bolts at normal ride height to prevent bushing preload and premature wear.

FAQs

How can someone tell if the Impreza’s coil springs need replacing?
If the car sits lower on one side, feels floaty, clunks over speed humps, or shows uneven tyre wear, the springs may be sagging or cracked. A visual check for chipped paint, rust pitting and broken coil ends under the guards is worthwhile. Measuring ride height against the service manual specs is the definitive check.

Should coil springs be replaced with the shocks/struts at the same time?
They don’t have to be, but it’s often sensible. If dampers are worn, fitting fresh springs alone won’t restore control. Many owners do springs, mounts and dampers together for a “one-and-done” result and to avoid paying for alignment twice.

Is an alignment required after spring replacement?
Yes. Any change to ride height alters geometry. A full four-wheel alignment on the Impreza is recommended to set front toe (and camber if cam bolts are fitted) and rear toe, ensuring stable handling and even tyre wear.