2023 Subaru Outback BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Front Arm: Installation

CAUTION: For the non-reusable parts, always use new parts.
  1. Before installation, inspect the following items and replace any faulty part with a new one.
    • Check the arm assembly front for damage or cracks.
    • Check the bushing for abnormal cracks, damage or fatigue.
    • Check the boot on the ball joint for damage.
  2. Using new self-locking nuts and flange bolts, temporarily install the arm assembly front and the front arm rear plate.
  3. Install the ball stud to the front axle housing.
    CAUTION:
    • Do not apply grease to the socket section of ball joint COMPL.
    • Be careful not to damage the boot of the ball joint.
    • Before tightening bolts, make sure the bottom surface of front axle housing and stepped section of ball joint COMPL are in contact.

    Tightening torque: 

    50 N.m (5.1 kgf-m, 36.9 ft-lb)

    G16385362Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    (a) Bottom surface of front axle housing
    (b) Stepped section of ball joint COMPL
    (c) Front axle housing
    (d) Ball joint COMPL
  4. Install the crossmember support rear.

    Tightening torque: 

    70 N.m (7.1 kgf-m, 51.6 ft-lb)

  5. Disconnect the strut assembly and the front axle housing.
    1. Place an alignment mark (a) on the adjusting bolt and the strut assembly.
    2. Remove the adjusting bolts and flange bolts for the strut assembly.
    CAUTION: Turn and remove the nut while holding the bolt side.
    G13620831Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  6. Install the arm assembly front.
    1. Apply a load to the arm assembly front using a transmission jack.
      G13620832Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    2. Adjust the clearance between the upper surface of crossmember support rear and the lower surface of ball joint connection of the arm assembly front.
      G13620833Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
        Sedan model OUTBACK model/WILDERNESS model
      Standard (a) 10 mm (0.39 in) 45 mm (1.77 in)
    3. Tighten the bolts and nuts that secure the arm assembly front.

      Tightening torque: 

      Refer to "COMPONENT" of "General Description" for the tightening torque. Ref. to FRONT SUSPENSION>GENERAL DESCRIPTION>COMPONENT>FRONT SUSPENSION .

  7. Align alignment marks on the adjusting bolt and the strut assembly, and install the strut assembly to the front axle housing.
    CAUTION:
    • While holding the bolt side, tighten the nut to the specified torque.
    • Do not forget to install the adjusting washer.
Chapter Navigation
Return to Chapter: Front Arm
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.