Parts for your 2022 Subaru Xv-Strut mounts

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

Yes, strut mounts are used on the 2022 Subaru XV (Crosstrek). Technical sources such as Subaru’s workshop manual and dealer parts catalogues for the 2018–2022 XV on the Subaru Global Platform specify a MacPherson strut front suspension with a strut top mount/insulator and integrated thrust bearing. The rear uses an independent double-wishbone layout with a separate shock and upper mount, so there’s no rear “strut mount” in the strict sense.

Up front, the strut mount secures the strut assembly to the body, isolates road noise and vibration, and—thanks to its built‑in bearing—lets the strut turn smoothly as the wheels steer. When the rubber insulator or bearing wears, the driver can cop clunks over bumps, a groan or twang while turning, vague steering, or that annoying “memory steer” where the wheel doesn’t self‑centre nicely. It can even nudge alignment out and scuff tyres.

There’s no fixed service interval for XV strut mounts, but it’s smart to have them inspected during regular servicing—especially from around 60,000–100,000 km, or sooner if the car sees corrugations, potholes, or a suspension lift. A tech will look for perished or cracked rubber, separated bonding, rusty top plates, and roughness in the thrust bearing.

Replacement tips owners appreciate:

• Tackle them in pairs on the front for even steering feel.
• Always do a wheel alignment afterwards.
• Use new self‑locking nuts and orient the mount correctly (many have an “OUT” or arrow).
• Inspect springs, bump stops and dust boots while it’s apart, refresh anything tired.
• If the car’s lifted or runs heavier accessories, consider heavy‑duty or OE‑quality mounts to handle the extra load.

Left too long, a flogged‑out mount can transmit harshness into the cabin and mess with steering precision. Swapping them early keeps the XV feeling tight, quiet and confident on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Rear note: the XV’s rear dampers use upper mounts, but they’re not MacPherson strut mounts. If there’s a rear knock, the check list is different—bushes, links, and the shock mounts themselves.

FAQs

How do they know their XV’s front strut mounts are worn?
Common tells include a clunk or thud over sharp bumps, a creak or twang when turning the wheel at parking speeds, steering that doesn’t self‑centre cleanly, and feathered tyre wear. A mechanic can confirm by feeling for play at the top of the strut and checking the thrust bearing for roughness.

Does the 2022 XV have rear strut mounts?
No. The rear suspension is double‑wishbone with a separate shock absorber. It has an upper shock mount, not a MacPherson‑style strut mount. Rear knocks are more likely from worn shock mounts, stabiliser links, or control arm bushes.

When should strut mounts be replaced?
There’s no hard‑and‑fast kilometre mark. Many last well past 100,000 km, but harsh roads, heavy loads or lifted setups can shorten life. Replace whenever noise, play or bearing roughness appears—or proactively when fitting new front struts to keep everything fresh and aligned.