Subaru Subaru Forester 2014-2018 Suspension Specifications
Explore detailed suspension specifications for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester, including part numbers, torque values, and alignment settings. Ideal for maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the suspension system of the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester. It is designed to assist mechanics, enthusiasts, and owners in understanding the suspension components, their functions, and maintenance requirements. Use the search and navigation instructions to quickly locate specific details or browse through sections for a comprehensive understanding of the suspension system.
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Key Specifications
Front Suspension Type
MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension Type
Double-Wishbone
Front Stabilizer Bar Diameter
21 mm
Rear Stabilizer Bar Diameter
16 mm
Camber (Front)
-0.5° to 0.5°
Available Specifications
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling. It features a MacPherson strut setup with coil springs and stabilizer bars for improved stability and control.
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling. It features a MacPherson strut setup with coil springs and stabilizer bars for improved stability and control.
MacPherson Strut System
- Utilizes a single lower control arm for compact design
- Integrated coil spring and shock absorber for space efficiency
- Designed for optimal weight distribution and handling
- Includes rubber bushings for noise and vibration reduction
Stabilizer Bar
- Diameter: 21 mm (varies by trim level)
- Reduces body roll during cornering
- Connected to lower control arms via links
- Enhances overall stability and ride comfort
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Forester is engineered to deliver a smooth ride and reliable performance. It features a double-wishbone setup with coil springs and a stabilizer bar for enhanced handling and comfort.
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Forester is engineered to deliver a smooth ride and reliable performance. It features a double-wishbone setup with coil springs and a stabilizer bar for enhanced handling and comfort.
Double-Wishbone Setup
- Independent suspension for each rear wheel
- Upper and lower control arms for precise wheel alignment
- Coil springs provide consistent ride height
- Shock absorbers for damping and control
Stabilizer Bar
- Diameter: 16 mm (varies by trim level)
- Connects both rear wheels for improved stability
- Reduces body roll during sharp turns
- Enhances traction and handling on uneven surfaces
Suspension Tuning
The suspension tuning of the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is optimized for a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. It includes specific damping rates, spring rates, and alignment settings tailored for various driving conditions.
Suspension Tuning
The suspension tuning of the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is optimized for a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. It includes specific damping rates, spring rates, and alignment settings tailored for various driving conditions.
Damping Rates
- Front and rear dampers tuned for comfort and control
- Adjustable damping on higher trims for performance
- Designed to absorb road imperfections effectively
- Enhances stability at high speeds
Alignment Settings
- Camber: -0.5° to 0.5° (front), -1.0° to 0.0° (rear)
- Toe-in: 0.05° to 0.15° (front and rear)
- Caster: 4.5° to 5.5° (front)
- Optimized for tire wear and handling balance
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- MacPherson strut front, double wishbone rear
- Configuration
- Independent suspension
- Platform
- Subaru Global Platform
- Material
- High-strength steel and aluminum
- Location
- Front and rear axles
Dimensions
- Front Strut Length
- 22.5 inches (571.5 mm)
- Rear Shock Length
- 20.8 inches (528.3 mm)
- Front Spring Rate
- 2.8 kg/mm
- Rear Spring Rate
- 3.2 kg/mm
- Front Sway Bar Diameter
- 22 mm
- Rear Sway Bar Diameter
- 18 mm
- Wheel Travel Front
- 6.7 inches (170 mm)
- Wheel Travel Rear
- 6.3 inches (160 mm)
Materials
- Strut Body
- High-strength steel with corrosion-resistant coating
- Spring
- Chrome-silicon alloy steel
- Control Arms
- Forged aluminum
- Bushings
- Rubber and polyurethane composite
- Sway Bar
- Hollow steel with anti-rust treatment
Features
- Damping
-
- Hydraulic shock absorbers
- Twin-tube design
- Variable damping rates
- Rebound and compression control
- Stability
-
- Electronic stability control integration
- Anti-roll bars front and rear
- Torque vectoring compatibility
- Hill descent control support
- Adjustability
-
- Ride height adjustment (optional)
- Damping force adjustment (optional)
- Camber adjustment capability
- Toe adjustment capability
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
- Sealed bearings
- Reinforced mounting points
- High-cycle fatigue resistance
- Performance
-
- Optimized for all-terrain use
- Enhanced cornering stability
- Improved load capacity
- Reduced unsprung weight
Safety Features
- Structural integrity
-
- Crash-tested components
- Reinforced mounting brackets
- Fail-safe design
- Stability Control
-
- Integrated with vehicle stability control
- Anti-lock braking system compatibility
- Traction control system support
- Emergency Handling
-
- Enhanced rollover prevention
- Skid recovery assistance
- Emergency braking stability
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Insulated bushings
- Vibration-damping materials
- Quiet strut mounts
- Ride Quality
-
- Progressive spring rates
- Comfort-tuned damping
- Smooth bump absorption
- Load Handling
-
- Heavy-duty spring options
- Adjustable load capacity
- Stable under heavy loads
- Temperature Resistance
-
- Heat-treated components
- Cold-weather performance
- Thermal stability
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Performance coilovers
- Heavy-duty sway bars
- Adjustable end links
- Lift kits
- Protection
-
- Strut tower braces
- Skid plates
- Suspension covers
- Maintenance Tools
-
- Spring compressors
- Alignment kits
- Bushing installation tools
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
- Check bushings for wear
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Inspect sway bar links
- Verify alignment settings
- Maintenance Notes
- Regularly check for unusual noises or handling changes. Replace worn components promptly to avoid further damage.
Warranty
- Basic
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Parts and labor for defects
- Powertrain
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Suspension components related to powertrain
- Corrosion
- Miles: UnlimitedYears: 5Coverage: Rust perforation
- Emissions
- Miles: 80,000Years: 8Coverage: Suspension components affecting emissions
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Subaru Corporation
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Precision forging
- Robotic welding
- Heat treatment
- Corrosion protection coating
- Quality Control
- Testing: Durability testing, Fatigue testing, Environmental testingStandards: ISO 9001 certified, JIS D 0201 compliance, Subaru Global Quality Standards
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials usage
- Energy-efficient manufacturing
- Waste reduction programs
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: Less than 0.1%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for suspension Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
- Check suspension bushings for wear
- Lubricate all suspension joints
- Inspect sway bar links and mounts
- Verify wheel alignment settings
Address any unusual noises or handling changes immediately
- Replace worn suspension bushings
- Inspect and replace sway bar links if necessary
- Check and adjust alignment settings
- Inspect strut mounts and bearings
- Test suspension damping performance
Use OEM parts for replacements to maintain performance
- Replace struts and shocks
- Inspect and replace control arms if needed
- Replace all suspension bushings
- Perform full suspension alignment
- Test electronic stability control integration
Consider upgrading to performance components if desired
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What suspension components are compatible with the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester?
What suspension components are compatible with the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester?
The 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is compatible with a range of suspension components, including struts, shocks, springs, and sway bars designed for this model. OEM parts are recommended for guaranteed compatibility, but aftermarket options from reputable brands like KYB, Bilstein, and Eibach are also suitable. Ensure the parts match the Forester's trim level (e.g., 2.5i, 2.0XT) and drivetrain (AWD). Always verify part numbers and specifications before purchase.
Q2 What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the suspension system?
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the suspension system?
The suspension system of the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester should be inspected every 12,000 miles or annually. Key maintenance tasks include checking for worn struts, shocks, and bushings, lubricating suspension joints, and ensuring proper alignment. Replace worn components promptly to avoid uneven tire wear and handling issues. Regular wheel alignments and tire rotations are also recommended to maintain optimal suspension performance.
Q3 How do I replace the front struts on a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester?
How do I replace the front struts on a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester?
To replace the front struts, first, safely lift the vehicle and remove the wheels. Disconnect the sway bar link and brake line bracket. Use a spring compressor to safely remove the strut assembly. Install the new strut, ensuring all bolts are torqued to factory specifications (e.g., 129-144 ft-lbs for strut-to-knuckle bolts). Reassemble components and perform a wheel alignment. Always follow the service manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions.
Q4 What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
Common suspension issues include knocking noises, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. Knocking noises often indicate worn struts or loose components. Uneven tire wear may suggest alignment issues or worn suspension parts. Poor handling can result from damaged shocks or springs. Inspect the suspension for visible damage, check for loose bolts, and test drive the vehicle to identify the issue. Replace or repair faulty components as needed.
Q5 How can I optimize the suspension performance of my Subaru Forester?
How can I optimize the suspension performance of my Subaru Forester?
To optimize suspension performance, consider upgrading to high-performance shocks, struts, or coilovers for improved handling and ride quality. Install sway bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Ensure proper tire inflation and alignment for balanced performance. Regularly inspect and maintain suspension components to prevent wear and tear. For off-road use, consider lift kits and reinforced components for added durability.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
2014-2018 Subaru Forester Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering suspension system maintenance, repair, and replacement procedures for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester.
Technical Service Bulletin: Suspension Noise
Coming SoonAddresses common suspension noise complaints and provides recommended solutions for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester.
Subaru Forester Suspension Parts Catalog
Coming SoonDetailed catalog of OEM and aftermarket suspension parts compatible with the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester.
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Technical Information
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