Parts for your 2020 Subaru Legacy-Struts

2020 Subaru Legacy struts: what they do and when to replace them

Struts are absolutely relevant on the 2020 Subaru Legacy. Technical sources – including Subaru’s 2020 Legacy press information (front suspension specified as MacPherson-type struts with a stabiliser bar), the 2020 Legacy/Outback Service Manual (Front Suspension section identifying a MacPherson strut assembly), and the Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue (listing complete front strut assemblies and mounts) – all confirm the vehicle runs front struts. The rear uses a double‑wishbone layout with separate spring and damper, not a MacPherson strut.

On the front of the 2020 Legacy, the MacPherson strut does double duty: it’s a structural part of the suspension and a shock absorber in one unit. It keeps the tyre planted, controls body motion over bumps and during braking, and helps maintain wheel alignment and steering feel. When the struts are healthy, the car rides smoothly and tracks straight, when they’re tired, it can feel floaty, wander over corrugations, or chew through tyres faster than it should.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but a sensible approach for Aussie and Kiwi roads is to have the struts inspected every 20,000 km or annually. Many owners see replacement somewhere between 80,000–120,000 km, sooner if the car sees rough, unsealed roads or lots of speed humps. Look after the struts and they’ll look after the tyres, brakes and alignment.

• Typical wear clues: increased nose‑dive under braking, extra body roll, a bouncy or crashy ride, clunks over sharp bumps, uneven or scalloped tyre wear, and oil misting on the damper body.
• Best practice when replacing: do both fronts as a pair, fit new top mounts/bearings, bump stops and dust boots, and book a full wheel alignment straight after. Torque the lower control arm and strut fasteners at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload.
• Safety tip: compressing coil springs can be hazardous, a professional with the right kit is the go if there’s any doubt.

Quality matters. OE Subaru struts or reputable aftermarket equivalents matched to the Legacy’s spring rates and valving will keep steering feel crisp and braking stable. After fitting, expect sharper response, better grip on patchy bitumen, and more even tyre wear across long Kiwi and Aussie kilometres.

Popular questions

Does the 2020 Subaru Legacy have rear struts?
The rear of the 2020 Legacy uses a double‑wishbone setup with separate shock absorbers and springs, not MacPherson struts. Struts are used at the front only, as noted in Subaru’s technical literature.

How often should front struts be replaced?
There’s no set schedule. Have them checked every 20,000 km or yearly. Many cars need fronts between 80,000–120,000 km depending on road conditions and load. Go earlier if you notice handling or tyre wear issues.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing front struts?
Yes. Changing struts can alter camber and toe, so a proper alignment is recommended straight after fitting to protect tyres and restore precise steering.