Parts for your 2020 Subaru Xv-Exhaust mount

2020 Subaru XV Exhaust Mounts (Hangers): Purpose, Care, and When to Replace

Based on the Subaru XV (GT7) Service Manual – Exhaust section, the Subaru Global Service Box/Technical Information System, and the Subaru FAST parts catalogue for the 2018–2020 XV, the 2020 Subaru XV is fitted with multiple exhaust mounts (rubber hangers) along the front pipe, centre section, and rear muffler. These mounts are absolutely relevant to the vehicle’s exhaust assembly and are considered wear items by Subaru’s servicing guidance.

On the 2020 XV, exhaust mounts are the flexible rubber isolators that suspend the exhaust under the car. They do two big jobs: hold the pipes and muffler at the correct height and angle, and soak up vibration so the cabin stays quiet and the exhaust doesn’t bang on heat shields or the rear subframe. The factory mounts are tuned to the XV’s NVH targets, so keeping them in good nick makes a real difference to comfort.

There’s no fixed replacement interval in the service book, but the mounts should be inspected whenever the XV is on a hoist—say, during scheduled servicing, any time the exhaust is loosened, or if there’s a knock or rattle from the rear. Rubber ages with heat, road grime, and time. Look for cracks, hardening, elongation of the hanger holes, or a droopy muffler. If one mount is cactus, it’s smart to change the pair on that section to keep the system sitting square.

Replacement is straightforward with the right approach: support the exhaust, spritz the mount pins with silicone spray, and lever the old rubbers off with hanger pliers. Fit new OEM-spec rubbers (or quality aftermarket equivalents that match durometer) and make sure the clearances to shields and bumper are even. If any bracket bolts are loosened, nip them back up to the spec listed in the Subaru service manual. After refit, start the car and check for vibrations or contact points through the rev range. Easy as.

For keen drivers, stiffer polyurethane mounts can sharpen exhaust control, but they may pass a touch more vibration into the cabin. For most Aussie and Kiwi daily use, genuine-style rubber is the sweet spot for comfort and longevity.

• Common signs of tired mounts:
  • Rattle or thump over bumps
  • Exhaust sitting off-centre in the bumper cut-out
  • Excess vibration at idle
  • Visible splits or stretched rubber

How many exhaust mounts does a 2020 Subaru XV have?

Typically, there are several rubber hangers: one near the front/centre section and multiple at the rear muffler. The exact count can vary with trim and market, but expect three to five mounts. A quick look underneath or a check of the Subaru parts catalogue for the GT7 chassis will confirm the exact layout.

What are the signs the XV’s exhaust mounts need replacing?

Listen for knocks over speed humps, a rattle at start-up, or a muffler that looks saggy or off-centre. If the rubber looks cracked, glazed, or elongated, it’s time. Addressing it early prevents contact with heat shields and keeps cabin noise down.

Can polyurethane mounts be used, and will they increase cabin noise?

Yes, poly mounts can be fitted and they hold the system very firmly, which some owners like. The trade-off is a bit more vibration. If comfort is the priority, stick with OEM-style rubber, if you want firmer control and don’t mind a touch more NVH, poly can work a treat.