Parts for your 2020 Subaru Xv-Control arms

2020 Subaru XV control arms — purpose, servicing and replacement

Control arms are absolutely used on the 2020 Subaru XV. Technical sources such as the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the GT-platform XV/Crosstrek (2018–2020) list the front “Front Arm” (lower control arm) under Front Suspension, and the rear “Lateral Link/Rear Suspension Arm” under Rear Suspension. Subaru’s official parts catalogues (FAST/Global EPC) also show front lower control arm assemblies and rear suspension arms for the 2020 XV. So, control arms are directly relevant to this model.

On the XV, the front MacPherson strut setup uses a single lower control arm per side to locate the hub and keep camber and caster where they should be. The rear multi-link uses a mix of arms (lateral links and a trailing arm) that are often referred to collectively as control arms. These arms, with their bushings and ball joints, guide wheel movement, absorb harshness, and keep the car tracking straight over rough Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Owners can expect tell-tale signs of wear like clunks over bumps, vague steering, instability under braking, or uneven tyre wear. Bushings can crack or delaminate, and ball joints can develop play, especially with regular gravel-road use or after a kerb or pothole strike.

For servicing, it’s smart to inspect control arm bushings and ball joints at each service (roughly every 10,000–15,000 km) or whenever there’s a knock or a pull. Look for split dust boots, leaking grease, torn bushings, and any corrosion at mounting points. After any suspension arm replacement, a four-wheel alignment is a must. Many XVs with EyeSight and driver assist features also benefit from confirming alignment is within spec so the systems behave as designed.

When replacing, quality matters. Either genuine Subaru arms or reputable aftermarket arms with OE-spec rubber or high-quality elastomer are recommended. Replace hardware and self-locking nuts where the service manual specifies, and always torque the pivot bolts at normal ride height to prevent preloading the bushings. Given the XV’s popularity for weekend trails, a quick visual once-over after off-road trips helps catch issues early.

• Common signs it’s time: knocking over bumps, wandering steering, uneven tyre wear, shimmy under braking.
• Good practice: replace in axle pairs, book an alignment, and recheck fasteners after a short bedding period.

FAQs

Does the 2020 Subaru XV have control arms?
Yes. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2018–2020 XV/Crosstrek platform details front lower control arms and rear suspension arms (lateral links/trailing arm). The Subaru parts catalogue likewise lists these components for the 2020 XV.

How long do control arm bushings and ball joints last on a 2020 XV?
Many see 80,000–150,000 km, but life varies with road conditions and driving style. Regular gravel use, heavy loads or frequent potholes can shorten lifespan. Routine inspections help catch wear before it affects tyres or handling.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms on a 2020 XV?
Yes. Any time a control arm or related suspension component is changed, a proper four-wheel alignment is essential to restore geometry and protect tyre life. It also helps driver assistance systems perform correctly.