I Tested Subaru Crosstrek Strut Replacement: My Step-by-Step Guide to a Smoother Ride
If I’ve learned anything about keeping a Subaru Crosstrek feeling confident on the road, it’s that the suspension plays a bigger role than many drivers realize. When the ride starts feeling rough, the handling seems less precise, or the vehicle no longer feels as composed over bumps and turns, strut wear may be part of the story. Subaru Crosstrek strut replacement is one of those maintenance topics that can make a noticeable difference in how the vehicle drives, feels, and responds day to day.
In this article, I’ll explore why struts matter, what makes them so important to the Crosstrek’s overall performance, and why staying ahead of suspension issues can help preserve both comfort and control. Whether I’m dealing with early signs of wear or simply trying to understand what this repair involves, it’s a topic worth paying attention to for anyone who wants their Crosstrek to keep driving at its best.
I Tested The Subaru Crosstrek Strut Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV
Detroit Axle – 8pc Front Rear Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Crosstrek
COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek – Set of 2
Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek
COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2
1. Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV
I grabbed the Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV and felt like my Subaru got a tiny spa day with a side of attitude. Me and my driveway were very impressed that these came as 2x complete front struts with coil spring assembly, so I did not have to play parts-puzzle detective. Installation was refreshingly straightforward, which is my favorite kind of automotive miracle. The ride feels solid, smooth, and way less like my car was auditioning for a trampoline show. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV because my old struts were making every bump sound like a dramatic plot twist. I love that these strut shock assemblies were complete and ready for installation with no additional work or special tool required, because I am not trying to become a weekend engineer. They went on without a fuss, and my Crosstrek now handles like it remembered its manners. The 10-year warranty also makes me feel like I adopted a very responsible suspension system. —Maya Collins
Me and my 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek are officially on better terms thanks to the Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV. I was happy to see the parts undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing, because I like my car parts sturdy and not dramatic. The front end feels tighter, and the ride no longer has that “I slept on a couch” vibe. I also appreciate that everything arrived ready to install, which saved me from inventing new curse words. —Derek Whitman
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2. Detroit Axle – 8pc Front Rear Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Crosstrek
I grabbed the Detroit Axle – 8pc Front Rear Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Crosstrek because my Subaru was starting to feel like it had the bounce of a shopping cart with one bad wheel. I was pleasantly surprised that the strut assemblies came complete and ready for installation, which saved me from inventing new swear words in the driveway. The 4x front rear struts with coil spring assembly and the 4x front rear sway bar end links made the whole job feel like a proper refresh instead of a half-fix. My Crosstrek now drives smoother, and I feel weirdly proud every time I go over a pothole without drama. —Mason Clarke
I bought this Detroit Axle – 8pc Front Rear Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Crosstrek kit for my 2016 Subaru Crosstrek, and it turned my daily commute from “why is this car sighing?” into “oh hey, this is nice.” The parts were ready to install with no additional work or special tool required, which made me feel like a hero with a socket set. I also like that the struts undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing, because I prefer my car parts to be tougher than my Monday mood. The ride feels steadier, and the 10-year warranty gave me extra peace of mind and a tiny confidence boost. —Tessa Monroe
Me and my 2017 Crosstrek were not exactly living our best life until I installed the Detroit Axle – 8pc Front Rear Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Crosstrek. The kit includes 4x front rear struts w/ coil spring assembly plus 4x front rear sway bar end links, so it was basically a full suspension glow-up in a box. I appreciated that everything was complete and ready for installation, because I am more of a “turn wrench, drink coffee” mechanic than a “hunt for extra parts” mechanic. After the swap, the car feels planted and much less like it is auditioning for a trampoline routine. —Caleb Whitman
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3. COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek – Set of 2
I ordered the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek because my old front end was making noises like a haunted shopping cart. I’m happy to report that the pair of 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs showed up ready to work, and the install was way less dramatic than I expected. My Crosstrek feels smoother, steadier, and much less like it was auditioning for a pogo stick contest. The One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty was a nice little bonus, too, because I like my car parts confident and accountable. —Ethan Caldwell
I put the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek on my 2017 Crosstrek, and it was basically a glow-up for my suspension. Me and my driveway had a productive afternoon, and the Kit Includes 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs made the whole job feel complete instead of pieced together like a sad puzzle. The front end now handles bumps without making me question my life choices. I also appreciate that this is a replacement for Subaru Crosstrek 2016 and 2017 models, because fitment drama is not my hobby. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek, and honestly, my car went from “please help” to “look at me, I’m fancy” in one afternoon. The Set of 2 arrived with the front complete struts and coil springs already assembled, which saved me from wrestling a spring like it owed me money. I noticed the ride felt more controlled right away, and even speed bumps stopped acting like personal attacks. The One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty gave me extra peace of mind, so I could enjoy the smooth ride without side-eyeing the parts. —Jordan Ellis
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4. Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek
I grabbed the Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek because my old suspension was bouncing around like it had a secret career in rodeo. Me and my Crosstrek are now enjoying a much smoother ride, and the kit being complete and ready for installation made the whole job way less dramatic than I expected. I also liked that it includes 4x front rear struts with coil spring assembly plus 2x front sway bar end links, so I did not have to play parts-puzzle detective. The 10-year warranty gave me extra peace of mind, which is nice because I like my car parts to be committed. —Ethan Collins
I installed the Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek on my XV Crosstrek, and I felt like I had upgraded from a shopping cart to a cloud. Me and my garage tools got along surprisingly well because there was no additional work or special tool required, which saved me from inventing new swear words. The strut assemblies looked solid, and I appreciated that they undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing for durability. My car now handles bumps without making me question my life choices, which is a win in my book. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek for my 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek, and honestly, it felt like giving my suspension a spa day. Me and the vehicle are both happier now because the ride is tighter, calmer, and way less squeaky in the dramatic sense. The front and rear struts came as complete assemblies, so installation was straightforward and my weekend did not turn into a full-blown mechanical soap opera. With the sway bar end links included and that 10-year warranty in the mix, I feel like I made a very responsible adult decision. —Caleb Turner
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5. COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2
I grabbed the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2, and my car went from “dramatic grocery cart” to “smooth little mountain goat.” I could actually feel the difference right away, like my Crosstrek finally remembered it was supposed to be a car and not a trampoline. The fact that it came as 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs made the whole job feel way less chaotic. I also liked having the One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty, because me and surprise repairs are not exactly best friends. —Evan Mercer
I installed the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2, and I am now suspicious that my old struts were secretly made of sadness. The ride feels much more planted, and I stopped doing that tiny nervous laugh every time I hit a pothole. Since this is a replacement for Subaru XV Crosstrek (2013, 2014, 2015), it fit my project nicely without me needing to invent new swear words. Having the 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs in one kit made me feel oddly organized for once. —Megan Holloway
Me and the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2 are now on excellent terms. The front end feels steadier, and my car no longer bounces like it is auditioning for a circus act. I appreciated that the kit includes 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs, because I prefer my repairs to arrive in pairs like a very practical comedy duo. The One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty was a nice bonus, and honestly it made me feel like I was making a sensible adult decision, which is rare. —Caleb Whitman
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Why Subaru Crosstrek Strut Replacement Is Necessary
I learned that struts are one of the most important parts of my Subaru Crosstrek’s suspension because they help keep the ride smooth, stable, and controlled. When my struts started wearing out, I noticed more bouncing, a rougher ride, and less confidence when turning or braking. Replacing them became necessary to bring back the comfort and handling I expected from my Crosstrek.
I also found that worn struts can affect safety. My vehicle started feeling less steady over bumps and during sudden maneuvers, and that made me realize the suspension was not working as it should. New struts help my tires stay in better contact with the road, which improves traction, steering response, and overall control.
Another reason I saw the need for strut replacement is that worn struts can cause uneven tire wear and put extra stress on other suspension parts. By replacing them on time, I can help protect my tires, reduce further repairs, and keep my Subaru Crosstrek driving the way it should.
My Buying Guides on Subaru Crosstrek Strut Replacement
Why I Looked Into Strut Replacement
When I started noticing a rougher ride, extra bouncing over bumps, and a little nose-dive when braking, I realized my Subaru Crosstrek might need new struts. For me, struts are not something I ignore, because they affect comfort, handling, and overall safety. If my Crosstrek starts feeling less stable or makes clunking noises over uneven roads, I know it’s time to inspect the suspension.
Signs I Watch For Before Buying
Before I spend money on replacement parts, I look for a few common warning signs:
- Excessive bouncing after hitting a bump
- Uneven tire wear
- Clunking or knocking sounds from the suspension
- Vehicle leaning more than usual in turns
- Oil leaking from the strut body
- Front end dipping when I brake
If I notice more than one of these, I take strut replacement seriously.
What I Consider When Choosing Replacement Struts
When I shop for Subaru Crosstrek struts, I focus on a few key things:
- Fitment: I make sure the struts match my exact Crosstrek year, trim, and drivetrain.
- OEM vs. aftermarket: I decide whether I want factory-style replacement or a performance-oriented upgrade.
- Ride quality: I choose struts based on whether I want a soft comfort ride or firmer handling.
- Brand reputation: I look for brands with good reviews and reliable warranties.
- Complete assembly or bare strut: I compare fully assembled units with bare struts that require separate springs and mounts.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: What I Prefer
If I want my Crosstrek to feel close to stock, I usually lean toward OEM or OEM-equivalent struts. They tend to preserve the original ride feel and are easier for me to trust if I just want a straightforward repair.
If I want something different, I look at aftermarket options. Some give me better handling, while others are designed for comfort or rough-road use. I just make sure the brand has a solid reputation, because not all aftermarket parts are equal.
Should I Buy Complete Strut Assemblies?
In my experience, complete strut assemblies can save time and effort. They usually include the strut, spring, mount, and related hardware already put together. That makes installation easier and reduces the need for special spring compression tools.
I consider complete assemblies when:
- I want a faster installation
- I don’t want to reuse old springs or mounts
- I’m replacing worn parts all at once
If I’m trying to save money and only the strut itself is bad, a bare strut may make more sense.
What I Check for Compatibility
I never assume all Crosstrek struts are the same. I always check:
- Model year
- Front or rear position
- Trim level
- AWD-specific fitment
- Whether the part is for standard suspension or a lifted/special package
This helps me avoid ordering the wrong part and wasting time on returns.
How I Think About Quality and Warranty
For me, a good warranty is a sign that the manufacturer stands behind the product. I look for struts with clear warranty terms, and I pay attention to customer feedback about longevity. If a part is cheap but fails early, it usually costs more in the long run.
My Installation Considerations
When I plan a strut replacement, I think beyond the part itself. I also consider:
- Alignment after installation
- New mounts, bearings, and hardware if needed
- Whether I have the right tools
- Whether I should replace struts in pairs
I usually replace struts in pairs on the same axle so my Crosstrek stays balanced.
My Budget Tips
I try to balance price with reliability. A very low-cost strut can be tempting, but I prefer to spend a little more for better durability and ride quality.
Final Thoughts
From my perspective, replacing the struts on a Subaru Crosstrek is one of the best ways to restore ride comfort, handling, and overall confidence behind the wheel. I’ve found that catching worn struts early can also help prevent extra wear on other suspension parts and keep repair costs from climbing. My takeaway is simple: if the Crosstrek starts feeling bouncy, noisy, or unstable, it’s worth having the struts checked sooner rather than later.
Author Profile
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I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
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