Parts for your 2020 Subaru Outback-Control arms

2020 Subaru Outback Control Arms — What They Do and When to Sort Them

Control arms are absolutely fitted to the 2020 Subaru Outback. Subaru’s factory service information for the sixth‑gen (MY20) Outback specifies a MacPherson strut front end using a lower control arm, and a multi‑link/double‑wishbone style rear that uses control arms and lateral links. Official parts catalogues and workshop manuals list front lower control arm assemblies and rear arms for this model, so the part is relevant to any 2020 Outback owner.

On this Outback, control arms locate the wheel hubs and let the suspension move in a controlled arc. Up front they help set camber and caster, and they connect the knuckle via a ball joint while pivoting on chassis bushes. Down the back, the arms (and lateral links) manage wheel alignment angles through the full range of travel. The result is stable steering, confident braking, and even tyre wear on long Aussie and Kiwi road trips.

Because control arm bushes and joints are rubber/metal wear items, they cop it over corrugations, potholes, and speed bumps. Tell‑tale signs it’s time to act include:

• Clunks or knocks over bumps
• Vague steering or a pull to one side
• Uneven or rapid tyre wear
• Shudder under braking or an alignment that won’t hold

During routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the front lower control arm bushes for cracks, excessive movement, or torn sleeves, and check the ball joint and rear arms/lateral links for play. There’s no fixed replacement interval, but a check every 20,000 km (or at each service) keeps things honest—especially if the Outback sees gravel or carries loads.

Replacement options vary by condition and workshop preference. Where design allows, worn bushes or a ball joint can be replaced, otherwise a complete arm is a clean fix that often includes new bushes pre‑pressed. It’s good practice to replace arms or bushes in axle pairs for even handling. Always use new hardware where specified by Subaru and torque everything at ride height to protect the new bushes.

Any arm work should be followed by a full four‑wheel alignment. The rear uses adjustment cams and the front geometry can shift after new bushes, so aligning camber, caster and toe will protect tyres and bring the Outback back to its planted, quiet ride.

Popular questions about 2020 Subaru Outback control arms

Do the front and rear of a 2020 Outback both use control arms?
Yes. The front suspension uses a lower control arm with a ball joint at the knuckle, and the rear multi‑link layout uses control arms/lateral links to control wheel position and alignment. This setup is shown in Subaru service literature and reflected in genuine parts listings.

How long do control arm bushes typically last on a 2020 Outback?
There’s no fixed lifespan, many Outbacks see well over 100,000 km before attention is needed. Harsh roads, heavy loads, and lots of stop‑start driving can shorten that. Regular inspections and an alignment check if tyre wear patterns change will catch wear early.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?
Definitely. Any change to arms, bushes, or ball joints can alter geometry. A proper four‑wheel alignment after the job ensures straight tracking, good steering feel, and even tyre wear.