Parts for your 2020 Subaru Impreza-Strut mounts

2020 Subaru Impreza strut-mounts: fitment, purpose and service advice

Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for 2017–2021 Impreza (front suspension section: MacPherson strut), the Subaru global parts catalogue for MY2020 Impreza (listing the front “strut support/mount” and separate bearing), and major aftermarket fitment guides from KYB/Monroe/Whiteline, the 2020 Subaru Impreza (GK/GT) uses MacPherson struts at the front with dedicated strut-mounts and integrated thrust bearings. The rear is a double-wishbone layout with a separate shock and spring, so there are no rear strut-mounts on this model. That means “strut-mounts” are relevant to the front end only.

The front strut-mounts on a 2020 Subaru Impreza do more than just cap off the strut. They secure the top of the MacPherson strut to the body, isolate road vibration with a rubber insulator, and, thanks to the built‑in bearing, let the strut rotate smoothly as the wheels steer. Good mounts keep the car quiet and planted, tired ones can add clunks, knock steer accuracy about, and transmit harshness through the cabin.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the front strut-mounts inspected whenever the front suspension or tyres are checked. A tech will look for perished rubber, distorted mounts, rust around the stud plate, and play or notchiness in the bearing when the strut is turned. Because the mount bearing works every time the wheel is steered, city driving and rough Kiwi or Aussie roads can hasten wear.

• Common signs they’re due: dull clunks over speed bumps, a spring “twang” while parking, vague steering on turn‑in, or uneven tyre wear.
• Best practice: replace strut-mounts whenever new front struts/springs go in. Reusing a tired mount on a fresh damper can lead to noise and premature wear.

If replacement’s needed, pairing quality mounts with new dust boots and bump stops is a tidy way to reset the top end of the strut. Always follow Subaru torque specs, align the mount correctly (pay attention to orientation tabs), and finish with a proper wheel alignment. Fresh mounts restore steering feel and help the Impreza track straight without extra effort.

There’s no set kilometre interval, but many owners see good life well past 100,000 km depending on road conditions. If the front end starts getting chatty or the steering feels a bit corked, having the strut-mounts checked is cheap peace of mind.

Popular questions about 2020 Subaru Impreza strut-mounts

Do both front strut-mounts need replacing at the same time?
It’s wise to do them in pairs. Age and kilometres affect both sides fairly evenly, and replacing both keeps steering feel and ride height balanced. If one has failed, the other usually isn’t far behind.

Will worn strut-mounts ruin new tyres?
They can contribute to irregular wear by allowing the strut top to move or bind, which affects camber and steering return. If you’re chasing shoulder wear or a shimmy despite correct pressures, inspect mounts along with alignment.

Do the rear shocks on a 2020 Impreza have strut-mounts?
No. The rear uses a double‑wishbone setup with separate shock and spring, so there’s no rear strut-mount. Noises from the back are more likely shock upper bushes, sway bar links, or top hats specific to the shock assembly.