Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Ball joints

2022 Subaru Impreza ball joints: what they do and when to service them

Ball joints absolutely are used on the 2022 Subaru Impreza. Subaru’s factory service information (STIS, Chassis > Front Suspension for the 2017–2022 GK/GT platform) specifies a front lower arm ball joint connecting the steering knuckle to the control arm, and Subaru genuine parts catalogues list a serviceable front lower ball joint for these models. That confirms the component is fitted and relevant for routine servicing.

On this Impreza, the front suspension is MacPherson strut. The ball joint acts as a tough, greased pivot between the lower control arm and the steering knuckle. It lets the wheel steer left–right while also moving up–down over bumps. Healthy ball joints keep steering precise, braking stable, and tyre wear even. They’re sealed, so there’s no greasing nipple—maintenance is mainly about inspection and timely replacement if wear is found.

• Common warning signs: clunks over bumps, a knock when turning at low speed, vague or wandering steering, uneven or accelerated tyre wear, squeaks/creaks from the front end, or a shimmy on rough roads.
• Service check: at each 10,000–15,000 km service (or 6 months), inspect the ball joint boot for splits, perished rubber, or grease weep, check for play at the joint with the wheel unloaded, and look for rust at the pinch bolt and knuckle bore.

For Aussie and Kiwi conditions—potholes, corrugations, and the odd kerb strike—these joints work hard. If the boot’s torn or there’s any measurable play, replacement is the go. Because alignment can change as joints wear, it’s smart to book a wheel alignment after fitting new ones. Most workshops also recommend replacing in pairs left/right to keep steering feel even.

• Replacement tips: use quality OEM or reputable aftermarket joints, clean the knuckle bore, lightly anti-seize the outer surface (never the taper), and torque the pinch bolt and control arm hardware to spec from the Subaru manual. If the pinch bolt is corroded or stretched, replace it.
• What to avoid: driving on a knocking joint. If a joint lets go, steering control can be lost—no one wants that.

Look after the ball joints and the Impreza will track straight, steer crisply, and keep tyres wearing nice and even.

Do all 2022 Imprezas have front ball joints?

Yes. All 2022 Impreza variants use a front lower ball joint joining the control arm to the steering knuckle. That’s documented in Subaru’s service procedures and reflected in OEM parts listings. The rear is multi-link, most wear items there are arms and bushings, rather than a traditional serviceable rear ball joint.

How long do Impreza ball joints usually last?

With normal driving, many see 80,000–150,000 km. Rough roads, frequent gravel, big wheels/low-profile tyres, or kerb hits can shorten that. Regular inspections catch boot damage early, which helps prevent premature wear.

Will worn ball joints fail a WOF or roadworthy check?

They can. Excessive play, damaged boots, or leaks are common reasons for a fail in NZ WOF or Australian roadworthy inspections. If you notice clunks or vague steering, get them checked before the next inspection rolls around.