Parts for your 2022 Subaru Outback-Strut mounts

2022 Subaru Outback strut mounts — what they do and when to replace

Yes — the 2022 Subaru Outback uses strut mounts on the front suspension. The factory literature lists a MacPherson strut front end with an upper mount and integrated bearing, while the rear is a double-wishbone layout with a separate shock and upper mount that doesn’t rotate like a true strut top. Technical references: Subaru Service Manual (2022MY Outback BT, Front Suspension), Subaru Technical Information System (STIS), and the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue, which shows the front strut top mount/bearing assembly under PNC 20320. That means front “strut mounts” are very much relevant for this model, while the rear uses shock mounts.

On the Outback, the front strut mounts do two big jobs: they isolate noise and vibration from the cabin, and they provide the upper spring seat and bearing so the strut can turn smoothly with the steering. When the rubber in the mount hardens, cracks, or separates — or when the bearing dries out — owners may notice steering that doesn’t self-centre cleanly, clunks over bumps, or creaks at parking speeds.

Because Aussie and Kiwi roads can dish out plenty of corrugations and potholes, it’s smart to keep an eye on these mounts from around 80,000–120,000 kilometres, or earlier if the vehicle regularly tows or sees rough surfaces. They don’t have a strict replacement interval, but they should be inspected whenever front struts, springs, or top hats are serviced.

• Typical symptoms: front-end clunking, knocking on lock, binding or “memory” in the steering, uneven tyre wear, and vague turn-in.
• Best practice: replace strut mounts whenever front struts are replaced — the labour overlaps and it prevents chasing noises later.
• Fitting notes: use quality OE-equivalent parts, renew any self-locking nuts and the bearing where applicable, torque to the service manual, and book a wheel alignment straight after.

A workshop service will check for play, torn rubber, or a gritty/noisy bearing while the strut is out. If only one side has failed, most techs still replace mounts as a pair to keep steering feel consistent. For the rear, the mount is a shock top mount (no rotation), so diagnosis and parts differ from the front.

FAQs

Do all four corners of a 2022 Outback have strut mounts?
Front: yes — true strut mounts with a bearing. Rear: no — it uses a double-wishbone with a separate shock and upper shock mount (no bearing). That’s why front and rear “top mounts” aren’t interchangeable and have different failure symptoms.

What are the common signs my front strut mounts need replacing?
Owners typically report clunks over sharp bumps, creaking at low speed while turning, steering that sticks slightly off-centre, or uneven tyre wear from inconsistent geometry. Any of these under the Outback’s bonnet area is a cue to inspect the mount and bearing.

Should strut mounts be replaced with new struts?
Usually, yes. The strut has to come out anyway, the bearing ages with the mount, and the extra parts cost is modest compared with the labour. Replacing them together restores steering feel and helps avoid noise or binding later. Always follow up with a proper alignment.