2014-2022 Subaru Foresters frequently experience premature failure of the rear knuckle bushings, leading to clunking noises and unstable high-speed handling.
Reviewed by SubaruReview Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-05-15 · Editorial standards
This is one of several documented Forester problems we track, and it fits inside the broader Reliability & Common Problems guide. If you're weighing repair against replacement, cross-check the Subaru repair-cost database and any open NHTSA recalls on your VIN before booking a shop.
The rubber bushings pressed into the rear wheel knuckles degrade and tear. This allows the rear wheels to shift out of alignment dynamically while driving. Left unaddressed, this causes the vehicle to feel unstable (wandering) at highway speeds and will rapidly destroy rear tires. In severe cases, the metal center sleeve of the bushing can separate completely from the rubber, leading to metal-on-metal contact.
The factory rubber bushings are soft-durometer and prone to premature tearing and dry-rotting due to environmental exposure and the high-travel nature of the Forester's suspension geometry, leading to excessive 'play' in the rear wheel alignment.
The factory rubber bushings are soft-durometer and prone to premature tearing and dry-rotting due to environmental exposure and the high-travel nature of the Forester's suspension geometry, leading to excessive 'play' in the rear wheel alignment.
National average $450–$1,200. Costs vary significantly based on whether a shop replaces just the bushing ($450-$600) using a specialized press-tool or replaces the entire knuckle assembly ($900-$1200). Parts for the assembly are roughly $350-$450 per side.
Difficulty 4/5. Replacement of the OEM rubber bushings with upgraded high-density rubber or polyurethane bushings. Many specialists recommend aftermarket solutions like Whiteline or Mevotech, as Subaru often sells the entire knuckle assembly rather than the individual bushing.
Loud clunking or 'banging' noise from the rear when driving over small bumps; Visible tearing or leaking of the rubber bushing in the rear uprights; A 'ghost-walking' or swaying sensation in the rear end on wet or icy roads; Uneven rear tire wear (cupping or inner edge wear); Squeaking noises during low-speed suspension travel (entry/exit of driveways)
Owners typically pay $450–$1,200 at an independent Subaru shop, parts and labor included. Our Subaru Front Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost guide breaks the job down by parts, labor hours, and where the money actually goes.
We rate it 4/5 on our DIY scale. Most owners come out ahead with an independent Subaru shop; read labor-hour benchmarks in the repair-costs hub before you commit tools and a weekend.
Dig into the Problems Database to plan your next maintenance sprint, or browse every model hub for buyer's guides, generation breakdowns, and known-issue lists.