Parts for your 2022 Subaru Xv-Control arms

2022 Subaru XV Control Arms — what they do and how to look after them

Control arms are absolutely fitted to the 2022 Subaru XV. Technical sources that confirm this include the Subaru Service Manual for the XV/Crosstrek (Front Suspension “FS” section lists a front lower control arm, also called a front arm/transverse link, Rear Suspension describes a double‑wishbone layout with lateral links that function as control arms), the Subaru Global Platform chassis brief (MacPherson‑strut front, double‑wishbone rear), and genuine Subaru parts catalogues for MY22 XV (listing LH/RH front lower control arms and rear lateral links).

On the XV, the front lower control arms locate the steering knuckle and let the front suspension move up and down while keeping geometry in check. Up front they pivot on rubber bushes at the subframe and a ball joint at the knuckle, managing braking, cornering and bump loads. Out back, the double‑wishbone assembly uses upper and lower lateral links and a trailing arm to guide wheel movement, those links are control arms by function, giving the XV its planted feel and tidy tyre contact on rough Kiwi and Aussie roads.

For servicing, it pays to have the control arms inspected at each routine service, and more closely every 20,000 km or so. Look for perished or torn bushes, split ball‑joint boots, impact damage from kerbs, and any rust on exposed steel arms in coastal areas. If a bush has delaminated, a ball joint has play, or an arm is bent, replacement is the go. When refitting, torque all pivot bolts with the vehicle at normal ride height (on‑wheels or with stands under the hubs) to avoid preloading the bushes. A wheel alignment is a must afterwards to keep tyre wear even and steering true.

• Typical symptoms of tired control arms on an XV:
  • Clunks over speed humps or sharp bumps
  • Nervous steering, tramlining, or a pull to one side
  • Uneven or rapid inner/outer edge tyre wear
  • Vibration or shimmy under braking
• Practical tips:
  • Replace arms or bushes in axle pairs for consistent behaviour
  • Stick with OE or reputable aftermarket parts that match Subaru specs
  • After heavy off‑road hits or pothole strikes, book an inspection and alignment
  • If towing or running heavier accessories, check bushes more frequently

Treated well, the XV’s control arms quietly do the hard yards, protecting tyres, sharpening steering feel and keeping the cabin calm on long kilometres.

Popular questions about 2022 Subaru XV control arms

How long do the control arm bushes typically last on a 2022 XV?
In normal mixed city and highway use, many owners see 80,000–150,000 km from front bushes, sometimes longer in gentle driving. Harsh roads, frequent gravel, heavy loads or lots of speed humps can age them faster. Regular inspections catch small cracks or torn boots early so you can swap bushes before they chew out tyres.

Do the XV’s rear suspension links count as “control arms”?
Yes. Subaru describes them as lateral links and part of a double‑wishbone/trailing arm setup, but functionally they are control arms guiding the rear wheel path. They use rubber bushes and ball‑style joints to control toe and camber as the suspension moves.

Will a wheel alignment fix a bad control arm?
An alignment can correct geometry after repairs, but it won’t cure worn bushes or a loose ball joint. If an arm or bush has play, the alignment won’t hold and tyre wear will return. Replace the faulty components first, then align the vehicle to Subaru specs.