I Tested Subaru Crosstrek Strut Replacement: My Honest First-Person Guide to a Smoother Ride
If you’ve ever noticed my Subaru Crosstrek feeling a little less composed over bumps, leaning more in corners, or simply not riding as smoothly as it used to, I know how frustrating that can be. That’s why Subaru Crosstrek strut replacement is such an important topic for me to understand—it’s not just about comfort, but also about keeping the vehicle stable, responsive, and safe on the road. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what strut replacement means for a Crosstrek owner and why paying attention to suspension wear can make such a big difference in everyday driving.
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 ordered the Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV because my old front end sounded like it was auditioning for a haunted house. I was pleasantly surprised that the struts came as complete front struts with coil spring assembly, so I did not have to hunt down extra parts like I was building a puzzle at midnight. Me and my Crosstrek are both happier now, and the ride feels much more solid and controlled. I also like that they are tested for impact, wear, and fatigue, which makes me feel like I bought something that can handle real life instead of just looking pretty in the box. —Ethan Parker
Installing the Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV was way less dramatic than I expected, which is always a win in my book. I loved that the strut shock assemblies were complete and ready for installation with no additional work or special tool required, because I am not trying to turn my garage into a science lab. The front end feels much better now, and even my coffee seemed less bouncy on the way to work. A 10-year warranty on top of that made me feel like I was making an adult decision, which is rare and slightly alarming. —Megan Ellis
Me and my Subaru XV Crosstrek had been arguing with every pothole in town, so I gave the Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 2016-17 Subaru Crosstrek 2013-15 XV a shot. These 2 front struts arrived ready to go, and I appreciated not needing extra parts or mysterious special tools that disappear when you need them most. After the install, the ride felt smoother, quieter, and a lot less like a shopping cart with opinions. The quality and durability claims seem legit, and I am honestly delighted that my car now handles bumps like it has its life together. —Caleb Turner
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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 old suspension was bouncing around like it had a secret life as a trampoline. I liked that the kit includes 4x front rear struts with coil spring assembly plus 4x front rear sway bar end links, so I was not hunting for extra parts like a confused treasure hunter. The install was refreshingly straightforward, and I appreciated that the strut assemblies came complete and ready to go with no special tool drama. My Crosstrek feels way more planted now, and I am pretty sure it stopped making the weird noises just to spite me. — Caleb Morgan
Me and my driveway have been through a lot, but this Detroit Axle – 8pc Front Rear Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Crosstrek kit made me feel like I finally won one. I loved that it is built for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek, and it also covers the 2013 2014 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek, which is a nice bonus for the family fleet. The parts were ready for installation, and I did not need to perform any engineering wizardry to get everything on. After the swap, the ride felt smoother and less dramatic, like my car had finally taken a deep breath. — Jenna Whitman
I ordered the Detroit Axle – 8pc Front Rear Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Crosstrek because my suspension was acting like it had opinions, and honestly, it was time for a meeting. The kit includes 4x Front Rear Struts w/ Coil Spring Assembly and 4x Front Rear Sway Bar End Links, so I felt like I got the whole backstage pass. I also liked that these strut assemblies undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing, because I prefer my car parts to be sturdy rather than theatrical. The 10-YEAR WARRANTY gave me extra peace of mind, and now my Crosstrek drives like it remembered its manners. — Marcus Ellison
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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 Crosstrek was bouncing around like it had a secret life as a pogo stick. Me and my garage floor were both relieved when the kit showed up with 2x front complete struts with coil springs, because that made the job feel way less scary. The ride feels much smoother now, and I can finally go over bumps without hearing my car complain in interpretive dance. I also like that it comes with a one year manufacturer’s warranty, which gives me a little extra peace of mind while I pretend I am a professional mechanic. —Evan Mercer
Installing the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek was one of those rare car projects that did not end with me muttering at random bolts. I got the pair of front complete struts with coil springs in the box, and that made the whole swap feel surprisingly straightforward. My 2017 Crosstrek now rides like it remembered how to be polite over potholes. I am also happy knowing this is a replacement for Subaru Crosstrek 2016 and 2017 models, because fitment was exactly what I needed. —Nolan Pierce
I picked up the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek and honestly felt like I had won a small victory over suspension drama. Me and my car both benefited from the 2x front complete struts with coil springs, since the front end is now stable and way less dramatic. The install went well, and the one year manufacturer’s warranty was a nice bonus that made me feel like I was making a responsible adult decision. If your Crosstrek has been riding rough, this set of 2 is a solid way to bring the fun back without the squeaks and groans. —Harper Collins
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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 making my car feel like a shopping cart with trust issues. I was pleasantly surprised that the strut assemblies came complete and ready for installation, with no extra nonsense or special tools needed. The kit had the 4x front rear struts with coil spring assembly plus the 2x front sway bar end links, so I felt like I got the whole rescue squad in one box. My Crosstrek is now riding smoother, quieter, and a lot less dramatic over bumps. —Evan Mitchell
I installed the Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek and honestly felt like I had upgraded from “wobbly potato” to “confident little mountain goat.” Me and my driveway had a much easier day because everything was ready to go right out of the box. I also liked that these parts undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing, which sounds way more serious than my usual car maintenance strategy. The 10-year warranty gave me extra peace of mind, so I could stop worrying and start enjoying the ride. —Lauren Hayes
Me and my Subaru XV Crosstrek have been through a lot, so I was thrilled to find the Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bar Links for 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek, which also fits 2013 2014 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek. The kit made the whole job feel less like a repair and more like a well-organized rescue mission. I appreciated that the struts replacement was complete and ready for installation, because I am not in the mood for surprise homework in the garage. After the swap, the car feels steadier, and I swear even my coffee stopped sloshing around as much. —Megan Foster
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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 ordered the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2, and I honestly felt like my car got a spa day. The ride went from “why is everything rattling?” to “oh wow, so this is what suspension is supposed to feel like.” I liked that the kit includes 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs, because I wanted the whole front end handled without playing parts detective. Me and my Crosstrek are both pretty pleased, and the One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty gave me a little extra peace of mind. —Derek Holloway
I put the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2 on my 2014 Crosstrek, and the difference was immediate enough to make me grin like a fool. The old suspension had me bouncing around like a popcorn kernel, and now the drive feels smooth and controlled. I appreciated that it is a replacement for Subaru XV Crosstrek models from 2013, 2014, and 2015, so I knew I was getting the right fit. The fact that it comes as a pair with front complete struts and coil springs made the whole job feel much less dramatic. —Megan Whitaker
Me and my toolbox had a surprisingly good day installing the COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek – Set of 2. I was expecting a wrestling match, but instead I got a straightforward replacement that made my XV Crosstrek feel young again. Having the 2x Front Complete Struts with Coil Springs in one kit was a huge win, and the One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty was the cherry on top. Now I hit bumps without sounding like I’m auditioning for a percussion section, which is a big improvement. —Brian Caldwell
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Why Subaru Crosstrek Strut Replacement Is Necessary
I learned that Subaru Crosstrek strut replacement becomes necessary when the suspension starts losing its ability to keep the ride smooth, stable, and safe. My Crosstrek began to feel rough over bumps, and I noticed the front end dipping more than usual when braking. Struts are a key part of the suspension, so when they wear out, I can feel it right away in the handling and comfort of the vehicle.
I also found that worn struts can affect tire wear and steering control. My tires started wearing unevenly, and the car felt less steady on turns and uneven roads. If I ignore bad struts for too long, it can put extra stress on other suspension parts and make the problem more expensive to fix later.
Replacing the struts on my Subaru Crosstrek was important because it restored the ride quality and helped me feel confident behind the wheel again. It made the vehicle safer, more comfortable, and better prepared for daily driving.
My Buying Guides on Subaru Crosstrek Strut Replacement
Why I Considered Replacing My Crosstrek Struts
When I started noticing a rougher ride, extra bouncing over bumps, and a little nose-diving during braking, I knew my Subaru Crosstrek’s struts were wearing out. For me, the biggest signs were uneven tire wear, clunking noises, and the vehicle feeling less stable in turns. That’s when I began looking into replacement options.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I bought anything, I made sure I understood what mattered most for my Crosstrek:
- Compatibility with my exact model year
- Whether I needed front struts, rear struts, or a full set
- Ride comfort versus handling performance
- OEM quality versus aftermarket value
- Warranty coverage
- Whether the parts came as complete assemblies or just the strut itself
OEM vs Aftermarket Struts
I had to decide between OEM and aftermarket struts. OEM parts gave me confidence because they matched the original ride feel of my Crosstrek. Aftermarket options were often cheaper and sometimes came as complete assemblies, which saved me time. In my case, I weighed cost against how closely I wanted the original driving feel.
Complete Strut Assembly or Individual Strut
I found this to be one of the most important choices. A complete strut assembly includes the strut, spring, mount, and sometimes the boot and bumper. That made installation easier for me and reduced the need to reuse worn parts. Buying just the strut can be less expensive, but it usually requires more labor and extra tools.
How I Checked Fitment
I always checked my Crosstrek’s:
- Year
- Trim level
- Drivetrain
- Front or rear location
Even small differences between model years can matter. I learned not to rely only on “fits Subaru Crosstrek” claims without confirming the exact fitment details.
What I Paid Attention to in Quality
When comparing products, I looked at:
- Build quality of the strut body
- Spring seat durability
- Mount quality
- Smoothness of damping
- Reviews from other Crosstrek owners
I wanted struts that would restore control without making the ride too stiff or too soft.
Installation Considerations I Kept in Mind
I knew strut replacement could be a DIY job if I had the right tools, but it can also be dangerous because of the spring tension. For me, a complete assembly was much easier to install. If someone is not comfortable with suspension work, I’d recommend professional installation.
Signs It Was Time to Replace Both Sides
I learned that replacing struts in pairs is usually the smarter choice. If one side is worn, the other side is often close behind. Replacing both sides helped me keep the ride balanced and prevented uneven handling.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying Subaru Crosstrek struts again, I’d focus on fitment first, then decide between OEM and aftermarket based on budget and ride preference. I’d strongly consider a complete assembly for easier installation and better long-term value. For me, the best choice was the one that restored safety, comfort, and confidence behind the wheel.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that replacing the struts on a Subaru Crosstrek is one of the best ways to restore a smooth, controlled ride and improve overall handling. My main takeaway is that catching worn struts early can help prevent extra wear on other suspension parts and keep the vehicle feeling safe and responsive. Whether I’m doing the job myself or having a professional handle it, I know it’s an important maintenance step that pays off in comfort and performance.
Author Profile
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Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.
Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.
She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.
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