Subaru Subaru WRX 2002-2007 Suspension Specifications
Explore detailed suspension specifications for the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX. Learn about alignment settings, component details, and maintenance tips for optimal performance and handling.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the suspension system of the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX. It is designed to help enthusiasts, mechanics, and owners understand the components, configurations, and performance characteristics of the suspension. Use the search and navigation instructions to quickly find specific details or explore sections for a comprehensive understanding of the WRX's suspension setup.
How to Use
Use the search functionality to locate specific suspension components or terms. Enter keywords like 'spring rate' or 'strut type' to find relevant information quickly.
Navigate through the sections using the table of contents. Each section is organized by major suspension components, with subsections detailing specific features and technical points.
Key Specifications
Front Spring Rate
217 lb/in
Rear Spring Rate
194 lb/in
Front Anti-Roll Bar
20 mm
Rear Anti-Roll Bar
18 mm
Ride Height
150 mm (front), 145 mm (rear)
Available Specifications
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX is designed for performance and durability. It features a MacPherson strut setup with key components optimized for handling and stability. This section covers the strut assembly, spring rates, and other critical details.
Front Suspension
The front suspension of the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX is designed for performance and durability. It features a MacPherson strut setup with key components optimized for handling and stability. This section covers the strut assembly, spring rates, and other critical details.
Strut Assembly
- MacPherson strut design with integrated coil spring
- Gas-filled shock absorbers for improved damping
- Aluminum lower L-arm for reduced weight
- Anti-roll bar diameter: 20 mm
- Bushing material: Rubber with urethane options
- Strut tower brace available as an upgrade
Spring Specifications
- Front spring rate: 217 lb/in
- Progressive spring design for balanced handling
- Spring material: High-tensile steel
- Coil diameter: 140 mm
- Preload adjustment not standard
- Optional lowering springs for aftermarket setups
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system complements the front setup, providing stability and traction. It utilizes a multi-link design with a focus on reducing unsprung weight and improving cornering performance. This section details the rear struts, springs, and other components.
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system complements the front setup, providing stability and traction. It utilizes a multi-link design with a focus on reducing unsprung weight and improving cornering performance. This section details the rear struts, springs, and other components.
Strut and Spring Configuration
- MacPherson strut with separate coil spring
- Rear spring rate: 194 lb/in
- Anti-roll bar diameter: 18 mm
- Trailing arm and lateral links for precise control
- Bushing material: Rubber with urethane options
- Adjustable camber arms available for aftermarket
Differential and Axle Integration
- Rear differential mounted to subframe
- Axle geometry optimized for AWD performance
- Bushings designed to minimize flex
- Subframe material: Steel with reinforced mounts
- Optional differential bushings for reduced play
- Compatible with aftermarket sway bars
Suspension Geometry
The suspension geometry of the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX is engineered for balanced handling and responsiveness. This section covers key measurements, alignment settings, and their impact on performance.
Suspension Geometry
The suspension geometry of the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX is engineered for balanced handling and responsiveness. This section covers key measurements, alignment settings, and their impact on performance.
Alignment Specifications
- Front camber: -0.5° to -1.5° (adjustable with aftermarket parts)
- Rear camber: -1.0° to -2.0°
- Front toe: 0° to +0.15°
- Rear toe: 0° to +0.15°
- Caster angle: 4.5° to 5.5°
- Optional adjustable control arms for fine-tuning
Ride Height and Ground Clearance
- Stock ride height: 150 mm (front), 145 mm (rear)
- Ground clearance: 160 mm
- Wheelbase: 2525 mm
- Track width: 1485 mm (front), 1480 mm (rear)
- Optional lowering kits reduce ride height by 30-50 mm
- Compatible with aftermarket coilovers
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear
- Configuration
- Independent suspension
- Platform
- Subaru Global Platform (SGP)
- 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)
- Spring Wire Diameter
- 0.55 inches (14 mm)
- Spring Free Length
- 13.8 inches (350.5 mm)
- Sway Bar Diameter Front
- 0.98 inches (25 mm)
- Sway Bar Diameter Rear
- 0.79 inches (20 mm)
- Track Width Front
- 58.7 inches (1491 mm)
- Track Width Rear
- 58.3 inches (1481 mm)
Materials
- Springs
- Chromium-silicon alloy steel
- Struts
- High-strength steel with aluminum housing
- Bushings
- Polyurethane and rubber composite
- Control Arms
- Forged aluminum
- Sway Bars
- Heat-treated steel
Features
- Damping
-
- Gas-charged shock absorbers
- Twin-tube design
- Adjustable damping (STI models)
- High-pressure nitrogen gas
- Springs
-
- Progressive rate springs
- Anti-corrosion coating
- Precision wound coils
- High tensile strength
- Bushings
-
- High-durability rubber
- Polyurethane options available
- Self-lubricating design
- Noise-reducing technology
- Geometry
-
- Optimized camber angles
- Negative scrub radius
- Anti-dive and anti-squat design
- Enhanced roll center height
- Adjustability
-
- Camber adjustment (rear)
- Toe adjustment (front and rear)
- Ride height adjustment (aftermarket)
- Sway bar link adjustability
Safety Features
- Structural integrity
-
- Reinforced mounting points
- Crash-absorbing design
- Stability
-
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
- High-cycle fatigue resistance
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Isolated subframe mounts
- Acoustic dampening bushings
- Ride Quality
-
- Progressive spring rates
- Tuned damping characteristics
- Vibration Control
-
- Hydraulic bushings
- Dynamic damper valves
- Temperature Management
-
- Heat-resistant seals
- Thermal-stable fluids
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Coilover kits
- Adjustable sway bars
- Polyurethane bushings
- Strut tower braces
- Tools
-
- Spring compressors
- Alignment kits
- Torque wrenches
- Bushing press tools
- Maintenance
-
- Replacement struts
- Shock absorber rebuild kits
- Bushing replacement sets
- Alignment shims
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
- Check bushings for wear
- Lubricate suspension components
- Inspect and tighten mounting bolts
- Check alignment settings
- Maintenance Notes
- Replace worn components immediately to prevent further damage.
Warranty
- Basic
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Manufacturer defects
- Powertrain
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Suspension components
- Corrosion
- Miles: UnlimitedYears: 5Coverage: Rust perforation
- Emissions
- Miles: 80,000Years: 8Coverage: Emissions-related components
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Subaru Corporation
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Precision forging
- Robotic welding
- CNC machining
- Heat treatment
- Quality Control
- Testing: Durability testing, Fatigue testing, Corrosion resistance testingStandards: ISO 9001, JIS D 0201, SAE J2530
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials
- Low-emission manufacturing
- Energy-efficient processes
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: 0.01%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for suspension Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
- Check bushings for wear
- Lubricate suspension components
- Inspect and tighten mounting bolts
- Check alignment settings
Replace worn components immediately to prevent further damage.
- Replace struts and shocks if necessary
- Inspect and replace bushings
- Check and adjust alignment
- Inspect subframe mounts
- Test suspension geometry
Use OEM or equivalent parts for replacements.
- Complete suspension overhaul
- Replace all bushings and mounts
- Inspect and replace control arms
- Check and replace sway bar links
- Perform full alignment
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 2002-2007 Subaru WRX?
What suspension components are compatible with the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX?
The 2002-2007 Subaru WRX is compatible with a range of aftermarket and OEM suspension components, including coilovers, struts, and lowering springs. Key specifications include a 5x100 bolt pattern, 56.1mm hub bore, and compatibility with GD chassis models. Ensure components are designed for the WRX sedan or wagon, as fitment may vary. Always verify compatibility with your specific model year and trim.
Q2 What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the suspension system?
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the suspension system?
Inspect the suspension system every 12,000 miles or annually. Check for worn bushings, leaking struts, and loose bolts. Replace struts and shocks every 50,000-75,000 miles or if signs of wear appear. Lubricate bushings and joints during routine maintenance. Regularly align the wheels to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure optimal handling.
Q3 How do I replace the front struts on a 2002-2007 Subaru WRX?
How do I replace the front struts on a 2002-2007 Subaru WRX?
1. Lift the car and remove the front wheels. 2. Disconnect the sway bar link and brake line bracket. 3. Remove the strut-to-knuckle bolts and lower the strut assembly. 4. Compress the spring using a spring compressor and remove the top mount. 5. Install the new strut, reassemble components, and torque bolts to factory specifications. 6. Reinstall the wheel and lower the car.
Q4 What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
Common issues include clunking noises, uneven ride height, and poor handling. Clunking may indicate worn strut mounts or loose components. Uneven ride height suggests sagging springs or damaged struts. Poor handling can result from misaligned wheels or worn bushings. Inspect components for wear, tighten loose bolts, and replace damaged parts. Perform a wheel alignment if necessary.
Q5 How can I optimize the suspension for better performance?
How can I optimize the suspension for better performance?
Upgrade to performance coilovers or adjustable struts for improved handling and ride height control. Install polyurethane bushings for increased rigidity and responsiveness. Pair with a stiffer sway bar to reduce body roll. Ensure proper alignment and corner balancing for track use. Regularly inspect and maintain components to sustain performance gains.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
2002-2007 Subaru WRX Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering suspension system maintenance, repair, and specifications for the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX.
Subaru Technical Service Bulletin: Suspension Noise
Coming SoonTSB addressing common suspension noise issues and recommended fixes for 2002-2007 Subaru WRX models.
Subaru WRX Suspension Parts Catalog
Coming SoonCatalog listing OEM and aftermarket suspension components for the 2002-2007 Subaru WRX, including part numbers and compatibility details.
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