Why would one need the best struts for Subaru Outback/Forester/Impreza WRX? A strut is a component of the car suspension that connects the wheel to the vehicle’s body and provides stability.
Struts’ primary purpose is to cushion the vehicle’s ride over uneven terrain and bumps.
Furthermore, it enables the vehicle to be turned by the driver and absorb other irregularities of the road.
Subaru Outback is the nameplate used by the Japanese carmaker Subaru for its two distinct models.
For those who have a Subaru Outback with worn-out struts and are considering a replacement, this post will help them make an informed decision on what to buy.
What is the best Subaru strut replacement?
As far as the struts for the Subaru is concerned, we highly recommend SENSEN 102001 as the best item to pick.
Such a strut will give the vehicle much-needed stability and balance while the driver turns it on in any off-road conditions.
However, if one isn’t satisfied with the quality, the Complete Struts Assembly can be a suitable replacement.
Why “SENSEN” is the best struts Subaru?
Sensen is one of the strut manufacturing firms that have created a reputation for itself.
Almost all carmakers and models have been covered by their struts, aiming to serve a large consumer market.
Many people are drawn to them because of their attention to detail, inexpensive options, high-quality materials, and unique design applications.
As a result, the SENSEN 102001 is also ideally suited for most outbacks.
Top 10 Best Struts for Subaru Outback Reviews
01. SENSEN 102001 Rear Complete Strut Assembly Compatible with Subaru Outback
Highlighted Features
- All-weather shock oil
- It’s made with high-quality Grade 8 SAE steel
- Engineered coil springs
- Highly durable and long-lasting
One of the main reasons this SENSEN 102001 is considered one of the best Subaru Outback struts and springs is that they can be the best friend of any vehicle, especially when it travels on bumpy roads in any other severe conditions.
The all-weather shock oil is used in Sensen 102001 struts.
Compared to other oils, this oil is consistent across a wide temperature range (like water) while also protecting against wear and tear and absorbing far more impact than other inconsistent oils.
As a result, this is the ideal lubricant.
Grade 8 SAE steel is used in these Sensen struts, the second-best steel on the market today.
This increases the strength and durability of the hardware, allowing it to resist the shocks and vibrations of gaming.
To prevent jerks from potholes, Sensen Struts use specifically engineered steel coil springs to absorb the impact of bumps adequately.
Easy to install, these OE-grade steel coil springs have remarkable endurance life, wide elastic limits, and exceptional strength.
As a result, they can gracefully absorb and dissipate body impacts while causing the vehicle’s occupants little to no discomfort.
Sensen Struts feature rust- and strong corrosion-resistant gauge spring seats. Variations in temperature, damaging gases, and aggressive liquids will not deform them.
As a result, a vehicle’s spring loading will be supported for over 5,000 miles of rigorous use on rough terrains by a seat built to last.
As an added benefit, spring seats reduce the risk of abrasion, rust, and corrosion from spring-to-spring contact.
However, one should also watch for spring displacement since this might mess with the vehicle’s balance and handling.
Pros
- Anti-rust and anti-dust
- Premium quality mounting hardware
- Professional powder-coated finishing
- Affordable
- Reduces noise
Cons
- They might fail after a few months of use
02. COMPLETESTRUTS Front & Rear Quick Complete Struts & Coil Springs Replacement
Highlighted Features
- Very versatile
- Anti-rust
- Made with premium-quality material
- Comes with right and left units for the back
- Painted finishing
Such a strut set is ideal for just about every Subaru Outback because they are an excellent value addition for any vehicle.
They have a sturdy Strut Dust Boot to keep dirt and debris at bay. In addition, it keeps dirt out of the strut seal and rod.
So, one doesn’t have to be concerned about the quality or functioning of any of the parts.
The SAE grade bolts and nuts, premium bumper, chrome-plated piston, premium bearing, and so on are examples of its premium parts.
Moreover, the manufacturer put this set through a rigorous evaluation process to sell only the best sets.
As a result, one can rest assured that the product they receive is of the highest quality and will not let a user down.
This set’s adaptability is out of this world. It is universally compatible with a wide range of automobiles.
When it comes to performance, this item delivers admirably. It’s a little higher than some people like, but it’s not that bad if a user can adjust to it.
It feels just like driving a brand-new automobile when it comes to smoothness and comfort.
For those who have worked on cars previously, installing this item should be a snap. One might have difficulties if this isn’t the case.
CompleteStruts’ customer service, on the other hand, is excellent. Some customers praised them for their professionalism and patience in answering all of their questions.
Pros
- Great performance
- Great fit
- OEM replacement
- Good customer support
Cons
- Quality isn’t great
03. Damper GDA GDB Shock Absorbers Suspensions Struts Coilovers for Subaru Impreza WRX
Highlighted Features
- Different adjustment modes (24)
- Nine pounds in weight
- Adjustable front height 14.764-20.079
- Spring rate: 19.8 lbs/mm
- Height can be adjusted at the rear from 19.685 to 25.000.
Many Subaru Impreza owners feel that the greatest WRX coilovers may be found by searching for these parts on the internet.
Models from 2002 to 2007 are compatible when discussing compatibility. Despite this, these aren’t the most effective suspension components for the 2016 Subaru WRX.
The fact that these suspension shocks worked with WRX models from 2002 to 2007 is quite astounding.
Saab 9-2x and Subaru Impreza Outback Sport compatibility were also added. Subaru Impreza Bugeye and WRX Blobey owners will be pleased to know that these parts are also available for them.
For a more pleasant ride, increasing the Subaru Impreza is the proper height adjustment.
Depending on the weather, each driver can better balance the tires and the car with these best struts for Subaru Impreza.
The adjustable ride height at the front ranges from 16.929 inches to 19.685 inches, while this strut’s adjustable rear ride height ranges from 23.228 inches to 25975 inches.
The driver can regulate the shock absorber force and account for the weather with a 24-day type of adjustment.
According to many experts, this is an excellent alternative for drivers who want to be flexible in road conditions. Depending on the driver’s preferences, a hard or gentle ride can be chosen.
Pros
- Stable suspension
- High-efficiency level
- Good curve adaption
Cons
- Compatibility issues with a few lever clip designs
04. SENSEN 101995 Front or Rear Complete Strut Assembly Compatible with Subaru Outback
Highlighted Features
- Steel coil springs
- Chromed Piston rods
- PTE coated-material
- OEM quality parts
As far as the best Subaru Outback shocks and struts are concerned, this SENSEN 101995-SS is undoubtedly the one that stands out.
As mentioned earlier, Sensen Struts use specifically engineered steel coil springs to adequately absorb bumps’ impact.
As a result, this model is quite a good one to have when the vehicle drives through potholes. Because it employs a chromed piston rod that has been visually toughened.
So that it can endure impact while being driven up and down through the tube, the piston rod is strong enough to sustain the force of thrust.
PTFE coatings are well-known for their low coefficient of friction (requiring little energy to slide), high chemical resistance, and exceptional abrasion resistance.
Sensen covers the iron pistons with PTFE to ensure the pistons are toughened while allowing them to glide effortlessly through the tubes. In addition, friction keeps abrasion to a minimum.
They can endure repeated contact with the all-weather oil without breaking. As a result, it can also survive the effects of weathering caused by oil pollutants.
The coating’s non-reactivity also means it won’t react with other components. Sensen only uses original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) whose quality has been established.
As a result, it ensures that each value pack is built specifically for the vehicle specifications, despite being an OE supplier.
Pros
- Great fit
- Offers an improved ride
- ISO9001:2000 certified struts
- Good impact resistant
Cons
- Installation is tricky
- Not highly durable
05. COMPLETESTRUTS Quick Complete Struts Assembly & Coil Springs Replacement for Subaru
Highlighted Features
- Comes with four struts
- Attached spring
- OEM-grade parts
- Excellent performance
- Great control
Whether you are looking for the best struts for Subaru Forester or Outback, these parts will surely satisfy your needs.
Outback struts are included with the Complete Struts kit for both the front and rear suspension. It comes in a set of four, with two on each side of the back, front, and passenger.
Such a strut assembly is just as simple to put together. All the pieces are included, so one doesn’t have to hire an expert to put them together.
Most people had no problems setting it up on their own. These struts have the advantage of already having a spring attached. Over the struts, there is a coil spring.
Additionally, these are intended to be drop-in replacements for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) versions and perfect fit. As a result, this strut assembly is built to OE standards.
The use of high-quality steel and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) design ensures a long service life.
These had excellent performance. With these in place, one can feel the command of the vehicle. In addition, the new struts were a vast improvement over the old, rusted-out ones.
The ride will be improved as well. Noises such as metal clanking and wheel squealing used to be present in the past. Such noises will be eliminated after they are fitted.
Unusual bouncing caused by road bumps will also be considerably reduced.
Pros
- Perfect height
- Absorbs shocks and impacts
- All necessary kits included
- Offers free shipping
Cons
- Alignment is necessary after installation
06. Coolautoparts Adjustable Coilovers Kit for Subaru Outback & Spring Shock Struts
Highlighted Features
- The height-adjustable and efficient ride
- Lightweight
- Great finish
- Pre-load spring tension
- Great strength
This package of parts is another method to get parts similar to the best coilovers for the 2015 WRX.
A Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2004) and Subaru Impreza WRX (from 2002 to 2007) can benefit from the compatibility.
Therefore, Subaru Impreza Sport and Impreza Outback owners should consider it as an excellent choice. As a result, such a brand is a very popular brand among consumers.
These coilovers, according to several customers, are the best Subaru Outback strut replacement parts on the market for the WRX because of their excellent height adjustment.
As a result, everyone on the road would drive safely on any road with complete wheel balance.
Like those used by this company, using aluminum components helps keep the overall weight down while providing excellent durability and strength.
As a result, the steering has improved in terms of responsiveness due to these reasons. In addition, any car that’s compatible with the kit can make a quick and easy change to its appearance.
This set of parts can be installed by anyone with little know-how and the right tools. Installation instructions, on the other hand, are absent.
As a result, hiring a professional is highly recommended for both car installation and alignment.
Pros
- Very effective functioning
- Parts are very durable
- Changes the vehicles’ appearance
Cons
- Expert help is needed for the installation
07. OREDY Left & Right Complete Shock Strut Coil Springs Compatible with Subaru Outback
Highlighted Features
- Highly reliable brand
- Comes with pre-assembled parts
- Dustproofing features included
- Highly durable
- Anti-rust
Ordey struts are also one of the best Subaru strut replacement parts available in the vehicles’ accessories market.
Even though it has only been on the market since 2015, Oredy struts are well regarded by prominent industry experts despite their newness.
There should be no problem locating an Oredy strut that fits an automobile because it is compatible with many vehicles.
Oredy’s struts are straightforward to use because they come pre-assembled with all the parts needed for installation.
In addition, their designs have a hollow bumper for durability and collapse prevention when the car bottoms down.
For dust-proofing, Oredy offers strut dust boots, which cover the strut rod and keep out dirt and debris.
Oredy struts’ selling points include their long life, high-quality materials, and suitability for a wide range of automobiles.
Thus, Oredy’s strut types are built to last thanks to the robust materials they’re comprised of.
However, the Oredy struts are available in various configurations for a vehicle, including a kit that can be placed on either the front or rear axles.
Throughout 50.000 kilometers, an Oredy strut should last well. However, the driving habits and the sort of terrain a user encounters will determine how often one needs to have Oredy’s struts replaced.
Pros
- Great fit
- High-quality parts
- No need to replace them for 50000 miles at least
Cons
- Expert help is necessary for the installation
08. SENSEN 102005 Front or Rear Complete Strut Assembly for Subaru Outback
Highlighted Features
- Sturdy metallic parts
- Resistant to warping and cracking
- Hollow tube design
- Enables heat absorption and dissipation
- Long-lasting
Why are they considered as one of the best Subaru Outback shocks and struts?
When the piston rods strike the tube walls, the specialized rubber materials absorb and lessen the impact force.
The rubber on these strut mounts protects passengers from the jarring impact of the vehicle’s chassis against the strut mounts.
In addition, the sound of the wheels would be relayed to the chassis and to the riders if this special rubber was not there.
Bearings are located in the strut top casing. Every time the steering is turned in a corner or changed direction, these bearings squeal.
However, the upper portion of the steering wheel can easily be turned since the bearings have a ball between them.
If the strut body must maintain its vertical posture during compression to allow pistons to move freely up and down, the tube must be resistant to warping, cracking, and twisting.
Thick and sturdy metallic parts were used in the hollow tube design by Sensen Strut to make it sturdy and long-lasting.
In addition to ensuring structural soundness, strut thickness also contributes to long-term performance. Furthermore, friction heat is quickly absorbed and dissipated.
These are the top Subaru Outback strut replacement part because it employs a chromed piston rod.
However, that is aesthetically toughened to withstand the thrust force while absorbing impact to ensure the piston rod is durable and can be driven quickly up and down through the tube.
Pros
- Specialized rubber lessens the impact
- Reduces friction
- Boosts performance
- Painted finish
Cons
- Front springs are not of excellent quality
09. AutoShack Front Driver and Passenger Side Complete Strut Coil Spring Assembly
Highlighted Features
- Neoprene dust boot with powder coating
- Comes with a complete set of kits
- Fits with most vehicles
- Nitrogen-charged struts
- Ideal for any off-road conditions
AutoShack is a very reputed brand in the vehicle accessories market. As a result, there is no surprise that they produce the best struts for Subaru Forester, Outback, and other top vehicle models.
One of the major reasons they are so popular is that these struts can be easily installed and hence it wouldn’t need any expert help.
All parts are pre-assembled, and therefore the installation isn’t a complicated process.
Every Complete Strut comes with everything a user will need. One will get pre-assembled with struts, springs, bumper kits, and isolators; no spring compressor is required.
Such struts are designed to match the design specifications for almost every vehicle.
Besides, AutoShack Struts are given a nitrogen charge to last longer and perform better than ones that are given only an air charge.
Also, these are very sturdy vehicle accessories that have neoprene dust boots with powder coating.
As a result, the user will not be forced to spend excessive amounts of money on inferior goods because of the sturdy construction.
The ride remains comfortable regardless of the route or road conditions. Additionally, the user will be aware of the brand’s capabilities in conjunction with the suspension system.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Offers a comfortable ride
- Reliable brand
Cons
- Strut bolts are not of good quality
10. SENSEN 101995-FS Front Complete Strut Assembly for Subaru Outback
Highlighted Features
- Powder-coated finish
- Extremely comfortable ride
- Premium quality parts used
- Seamless steel tubes
- Complies with OE requirements
While making the list of the best struts for Subaru Impreza, Outback, etc., no way would we have excluded the SENSEN 101995 model.
Such a strut is a great value addition to any Outback or, for that matter, any heavy-duty vehicle.
Such an OEM shock absorber set’s makers have gone above and beyond to ensure that its components have been improved to provide the best possible performance in an OEM shock absorber set.
In other words, one may drastically elevate their riding experience thanks to these Sensen struts. Furthermore, installing the strut would provide the user with a much more pleasant ride.
As a result, there will be no bouncing, and it will be highly comfortable and smooth to the maximum degree possible.
A further benefit of the powder-coated exterior is that it can be warrantied for years to come. In addition, the high-quality material and design provide long-term rust resistance.
Unlike many other goods in this price range, the shock is verified as premium quality.
When it comes to Sensen shocks, seamless steel tubes are a certainty. As a result, it offers better shock concentricity and extends the life of the shocks.
Furthermore, when comparing seamless steel tubes to competitors’ welded seam tubes, seamless steel tubes always outlast the latter.
Sensen uses Japanese grinding machinery to produce its piston rods with superior concentricity to ensure quality.
In addition, Sensen has its own automated hard chrome plating line on-site to ensure that the RMA or roughness meets OE requirements.
The durability of the shock assembly depends a lot on the piston rod’s quality.
Pros
- The package includes two struts
- Perfect fitting
- Absorbs a lot of impacts successfully
- Chrome-plated struts
Cons
- Can wear after 10000 miles
How To Choose The Best Struts for Subaru Outback/Forester/Impreza WRX
While looking for the best Subaru Outback struts and springs, one must look for some essential factors. Let’s check them below:
Compatibility
Before buying a strut, be sure it will fit in the car. Finding the perfect struts for a car only takes a few minutes of online research.
Struts must be exactly aligned for them to function properly and produce the optimum results.
The purchasers can always be contacted and asked if the item is compatible with their automobile model, or the compatibility can be checked on their Amazon page or website.
Installation
One would like a strut that’s simple to install in a car. It’s not necessary to use any additional tools to install good struts. Bolts are included for this purpose.
However, if a user is unsure how to do it, it’s preferable to get an expert for assistance.
If the struts are in good condition, they should fit like OEM gears with nothing protruding or taking up excessive space.
Durability
When shopping for struts, make sure to keep the durability factor in mind. If a user has to change their struts frequently, it’s because they’re labor-intensive and expensive.
On the other hand, products from reputable companies are well-designed and last for a long time.
A user should also check if they offer a warranty on their products or not. Strong struts are constructed of premium steel. The best steel is powder-coated steel because it resists rusting.
As a result, a strut must be pressure, temperature, and vibration resistant because it will constantly be exposed to these conditions.
Therefore, these struts will serve a user well for a long period.
Functioning
The primary function of a strut is to support the weight of a vehicle while also keeping the wheels firmly planted on the road.
To handle road imperfections easily, good struts can also be employed off-road. One will enjoy a comfortable ride, and their automobile will look and feel like new as a result.
Also, be sure to look for a noise-canceling option.
The best struts for a smooth ride ensure that the steering does not generate strange noises. However, metal-on-metal contact in poorly built struts can cause rattling noises.
So, to avoid hearing those grating clanking sounds, a user needs to look for the best struts available.
If the strut keeps a car from wobbling, that’s another consideration to make. But, again, it’s a fantastic feature found only on the best struts.
Installing proper struts will keep a car steady while driving, provide comfort, and make it safe.
Cost
When shopping for struts, don’t forget to factor in the cost. Of course, if users can avoid it, they shouldn’t spend a lot of money on it.
But, on the other hand, one will also not want to be offered a substandard product because it’s inexpensive.
To keep the cost down, the best struts are available at a moderate price. They’re often less expensive than the mediocre struts a user will find at their local hardware store.
Despite their low cost, high-quality struts offer numerous benefits. One may read customer reviews to determine whether or not a product is reliable and worth the money (Point discussed below).
Customer Feedback
The majority of users submit reviews online based on their experiences with various struts. There is always a list of reviews on the same page as the item.
One can learn a lot about a product by reading customer reviews.
Important FAQs
If someone is purchasing struts, they may have a few concerns before making a purchase. For example, if users are buying struts for the first time, they can run into some issues.
Here are some of the frequently asked questions and their answers about struts for their convenience:
Are struts standard equipment on all cars and trucks?
No. Struts aren’t standard equipment on all cars. Also, struts are almost always seen on the front of automobiles (on whom they are installed).
Struts provide what purpose?
The suspension system’s struts are critical components. As well as carrying the vehicle’s weight, it also acts as a shock absorber by dampening road vibrations.
Why are struts missing from some vehicles?
This may be due to the company’s reputation. For example, struts are commonly found in high-end vehicles with a reputable brand name.
Shocks and struts are two different types of suspension components. What’s the difference?
Shocks are designed to dampen the impact of other shocks. As a result, they don’t carry the weight of the vehicle, whereas struts do.
Struts or coilovers: which is better?
Each of these components is designed to perform a specific role.
Coilovers are a sort of strut, and many people making this comparison don’t know that. A spring that stretches or coils from the top can be found in this type of component.
There are, nevertheless, certain distinctions to be made.
Coilovers, due to their adaptability, usually yield a more accurate result in terms of ride height. The ride height may be adjusted and the springs replaced by anyone.
Although additional customization of the spring cup is obtained, this method necessitates specific understanding.
Do I need struts? How do I know?
If a vehicle is unsteady, has oil leaks, or makes noises, the struts need to be replaced or upgraded.
I’m not sure how often I should have my struts checked? How do I know that?
Every 5,000 miles, one should have them inspected. If the struts aren’t performing properly, one should look for any signs of oil leaks.
What is the proper way to inspect my struts?
If a user is tech-savvy, they can perform the checks themselves. For additional assistance, they should take the struts to a nearby workshop.
After installing new struts, why does it still feel stiff?
The automobile will have a completely different ride quality after installing new struts. New struts may seem stiff at first if a user is used to the old ones.
Is it expensive to have the struts replaced?
Struts aren’t too expensive, and if a user buys from a reputable brand, they will get a fantastic deal.
Should I replace my strut mounts as they begin to wear out?
Because strut mounts degrade over time, it’s essential to replace them regularly. So, replace them after every 50,000 miles if possible.
Do worn-out struts have an impact on how well I drive?
Yes, indeed. When the struts are worn down, the car on which it’s installed will be difficult to handle, and its steering will become erratic.
Conclusion
Finding the best struts for Subaru Outback is a very critical factor. If the struts are worn out, a user and their car will have a lot of issues.
Installing decent struts will keep them out of problems and improve their driving experience.
Remember, high-quality struts are always advised for a car because they give reliable service and increase the vehicle’s stability.
By following these pointers, one will have more confidence in their purchasing decisions and be less likely to pay too much for a product that doesn’t deliver on its promises.
At the end of the day, the most return on their investment.