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If you drive a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester, the right suspension kit can transform how the vehicle handles, rides, and copes with rough roads. Whether you want firmer cornering, added ground clearance for light off-road use, or a smoother daily commute, swapping the stock components for a well-chosen kit is one of the most effective upgrades you can make.This guide covers six shortlisted suspension kits selected for fitment with the 2009-2013 Forester and evaluates each on ride quality, durability, and installation considerations. Read on to understand the tradeoffs between lift, lowering, and performance-oriented setups and to find the kit that best matches how you drive. Next, we explain the buying factors to weigh before choosing a kit.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Forester parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Detroit Axle 10pc Suspension Kit for 2009–2013 Subaru Forester |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Complete Struts Front & Rear Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester (Set of 4) |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | AUQDD 12‑Piece Front Suspension Kit for 2009–2013 Subaru Forester |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | A-Premium 8-Piece Front Suspension Kit for Subaru Forester (2009–2013) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | TRQ Front Steering & Suspension 6-Piece Control Arm Kit with Ball Joints and Tie Rods |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Detroit Axle 12-piece Suspension Kit for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester (Naturally Aspirated) |  |
1. Detroit Axle 10pc Suspension Kit for 2009–2013 Subaru Forester
| Fitment years | 2009-2013 |
|---|---|
| Kit contents | 2 rear struts, 4 sway bars, 2 outer tie rods, 2 front strut/shocks |
| Position | Front, Rear |
| Manufacturer | Detroit Axle |
This Detroit Axle 10-piece suspension kit supplies the main components needed to refresh a 2009–2013 Subaru Forester suspension in one purchase. The kit includes two rear struts, four front and rear sway bar links, two front outer tie rods, and two front strut/shock assemblies that arrive ready to install. The preassembled strut/shock units simplify a direct swap and reduce shop time compared with rebuilding individual components. Detroit Axle says the parts undergo impact and fatigue testing and the kit carries a 10-year warranty, which adds confidence for long-term use. In practice the kit should restore ride control, reduce body roll from worn sway links, and eliminate steering play from degraded tie rods. Expect a factory-replacement feel rather than a performance upgrade; these parts are sized for stock ride characteristics. Also note the kit covers naturally aspirated Forester fitment only and does not include hardware beyond the listed components, so alignment after installation and any missing fasteners must be addressed separately.
Best for: Buyers who want a single-purchase solution to replace worn suspension components and restore factory ride, handling, and steering precision on a 2009–2013 Forester.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a performance-oriented suspension or lowered/stiffer handling setup should consider aftermarket performance parts instead.
- Complete kit covers front and rear struts plus sway links and outer tie rods for a full suspension refresh
- Ready-to-install strut and shock assemblies save time and simplify replacement
- Includes sway bar links and tie rods to address common wear points that cause body roll and steering play
- Backed by impact and fatigue testing and a 10-year warranty for long-term confidence
- Designed to restore factory ride and handling rather than improve performance or sport tuning
Verdict: A convenient, ready-to-install kit that restores factory ride and steering on 2009–2013 Subaru Foresters with one purchase.
2. Complete Struts Front & Rear Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester (Set of 4)
| Set Name | Complete Strut Assemblies Set of 4 |
|---|---|
| Unit Count | 4 Count |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
This four-piece kit replaces both front and rear struts on 2009–2013 Subaru Forester (excluding turbo models) and ships as complete assemblies with coil springs for direct swap-in installation. The units are built to factory-spec dimensions and material type listed as metal, which makes them suitable for restoring original ride height and handling after worn struts lead to body roll or poor damping. Because they arrive as complete assemblies you avoid spring compression and much of the labor tied to separate-strut rebuilds, speeding up installation for DIYers or shops. For a performance-minded Forester owner these provide predictable damping and a firmer feel than worn originals, but they are positioned as factory replacement parts rather than sport-tuned components, so you should not expect lowered ride height or aggressive firmness. The kit is vehicle-specific so fitment is straightforward for the stated model years, though it is not compatible with turbocharged Forester variants.
Best for: Buyers who want a straightforward, vehicle-specific replacement to restore steering response and control after worn struts, and who prioritize reliable, factory-style handling over aggressive performance upgrades.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking lowered stance, track-focused damping, or adjustable performance suspension should consider aftermarket sport or coilover options instead.
- Complete front and rear assemblies include coil springs to simplify installation and avoid spring compression tools
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2009–2013 Forester non-turbo models reduces fitment guesswork
- Built to factory-style specifications for predictable ride and restored handling
- Metal construction designed for durable service life under normal driving conditions
- Not designed or marketed as a performance or sport-tuned suspension, so changes to handling are modest
- Excludes turbocharged Forester models, limiting applicability
Verdict: A ready-to-install, vehicle-specific strut kit that restores factory-style ride and handling for 2009–2013 Subaru Forester non-turbo models.
3. AUQDD 12‑Piece Front Suspension Kit for 2009–2013 Subaru Forester
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
This AUQDD suspension kit bundles the common front-end wear items you would replace when restoring steering feel and suspension geometry on a 2009–2013 Subaru Forester. The set includes two lower control arms, two lower ball joints, inner and outer tie rod ends, sway bar end links, and rack boots so you can refresh the entire front linkage in one job. Parts are alloy steel and vehicle-specific fit simplifies ordering and reduces compatibility guesswork. For DIY installers or a shop doing a coordinated job, the kit saves time compared with sourcing each part separately and helps ensure matched wear characteristics across the front suspension. Expect factory-style function for road comfort and steering stability rather than performance tuning. The kit does not include alignment service or bolts and some installers may prefer OEM-branded components for long-term durability, so plan on a post-install alignment and inspect included hardware before installation.
Best for: Buyers who want a practical, one-stop kit to refresh the entire front suspension on a 2009–2013 Forester and prefer replacing matched components in a single service visit.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers looking for performance-tuned suspension parts or those who require factory-brand components for long-term warranty or exact OEM provenance should consider other options.
- Comprehensive 12-piece set covers most front suspension wear items for a single coordinated replacement
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2009–2013 Forester reduces compatibility errors
- Alloy steel construction for parts that match typical factory-strength components
- Includes both inner and outer tie rod ends plus rack boots to address steering linkage and protect the rack
- Does not state included hardware or alignment service, so additional parts or labor may be needed
Verdict: If you want a practical single-purchase solution to replace all common front suspension wear parts on a 2009–2013 Forester, this complete 12-piece kit makes the job straightforward.
4. A-Premium 8-Piece Front Suspension Kit for Subaru Forester (2009–2013)
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
| Unit Count | 8 Count |
This A-Premium 8-piece front suspension kit bundles the common front-end wear items you would replace when restoring steering feel and eliminating clunks on a 2009–2013 Subaru Forester. The kit includes front sway bar links, lower ball joints, outer tie rod ends, and inner tie rod ends built from alloy steel with rubber bushings to help damp vibration and road noise. Use it as a one-stop service part set during a front suspension rebuild or when multiple steering components show play; installing all items at once helps restore consistent steering response and can prevent uneven tire wear. The components are vehicle-specific, so fitment is intended for the Forester years listed. Practical limits: this is a direct replacement-style aftermarket kit aimed at budget repairs rather than performance upgrades, so you should expect basic OE-like function rather than upgraded durability or premium materials. The one-year parts guarantee covers defects but not labor or installation costs.
Best for: Budget-minded Forester owners who need a complete front suspension refresh in one purchase and prefer replacing all common wear items at once to restore steering feel and reduce noise.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking heavy-duty, high-performance, or long-life upgraded suspension components should consider premium or performance-focused options instead.
- Complete 8-piece set covers common front suspension wear items for a single service visit
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2009–2013 Subaru Forester simplifies parts matching
- Alloy steel construction with rubber bushings helps reduce vibration and road noise
- Bundling parts reduces the time and effort compared with sourcing individual components
- Aftermarket, budget-focused parts that are not designed as performance or heavy-duty upgrades
- Limited warranty covers only part replacement value and excludes labor or related expenses
Verdict: A cost-conscious, all-in-one front suspension kit that makes it easy to restore steering feel and stop front-end clunks on 2009–2013 Subaru Forester models.
5. TRQ Front Steering & Suspension 6-Piece Control Arm Kit with Ball Joints and Tie Rods
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front Lower |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Model | TRQ PSA65132 6 Piece Steering & Suspension Kit |
This TRQ 6-piece front steering and suspension kit bundles two front lower control arms with ball joints, two outer tie rods, and two sway bar links to restore front-end steering and handling. Designed as a vehicle-specific direct replacement, the components arrive pre-assembled and pre-greased to simplify installation and reduce initial maintenance. The machined exterior and anti-corrosion coating aim to extend service life, while TRQ’s DIY videos and fitment guidance make it easier for a confident home mechanic to install the kit. In use the kit should tighten steering feel and reduce play from worn linkages, helping return the vehicle to factory-quality handling. Limitations are that this is a replacement kit rather than an upgraded performance set, so it restores rather than enhances handling, and long-term durability will depend on driving conditions and maintenance. Buyers should verify compatibility with their exact model and consider professional alignment after installation.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize restoring reliable, factory-like steering and suspension performance on their Forester and prefer a direct-fit kit that simplifies DIY replacement and reduces install time.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking upgraded sport handling or performance suspension parts should look for performance-oriented components instead.
- Complete front steering and suspension coverage with control arms, tie rods, and sway bar links included
- Pre-greased and pre-assembled components reduce installation time and initial maintenance
- Vehicle-specific direct-fit design removes need for modifications
- Anti-corrosion coating and machined exterior improve durability and appearance
- Extensive DIY video resources to guide installation for home mechanics
- Designed to restore factory performance rather than improve steering or handling beyond stock
Verdict: Choose this TRQ direct-fit kit if you want a complete, easy-to-install solution to reliably restore front steering and suspension performance on a 2009–2013 Subaru Forester.
6. Detroit Axle 12-piece Suspension Kit for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester (Naturally Aspirated)
| Fitment | 2009-2013 Subaru Forester (Naturally Aspirated) |
|---|---|
| Kit contents | Front & rear strut assemblies, 2 lower control arms w/ ball joints, 2 outer tie rods, 4 sway bar end links |
| Manufacturer | Detroit Axle |
| Item model number | 12CQS47124 |
This Detroit Axle kit bundles the most common front and rear suspension wear items into one package for the 2009–2013 Subaru Forester (naturally aspirated). It includes front and rear strut assemblies with coil springs, two front lower control arms with ball joints, front outer tie rod ends, and front and rear sway bar end links so you can rebuild both ends of the suspension in a single job. The struts come as complete assemblies ready to bolt in, which speeds installation and avoids spring compressors for most shops. Detroit Axle highlights premium alloy construction and enhanced structural strength aimed at corrosion resistance and durability. For drivers this means restored ride control, reduced noise from worn components, and fewer separate parts to source. The kit is a wide-coverage, value-focused option but is focused on factory-style replacement rather than sport or performance tuning; professional alignment after installation is still required and some DIYers will need basic suspension tools or a shop for safe mounting and alignment.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a proven, one-stop repair with good customer feedback and want to replace most common suspension components at once to restore handling and ride quality.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking performance-oriented upgrades, custom suspension geometry, or owners who need parts for modified Foresters with nonstandard ride height or tuning.
- Complete kit covers front and rear wear items so you can replace struts, control arms, tie rods, and sway links in one purchase
- Struts are delivered as complete assemblies with coil springs to simplify installation and reduce labor time
- Components described as premium alloy and high-strength structure for improved corrosion resistance and durability
- Kit targets factory-style replacement and is not intended for performance or lowered suspension setups
Verdict: If you want a single, factory-style repair package to renew the common suspension wear items on a 2009–2013 Forester, this Detroit Axle 12-piece kit is a convenient, value-focused choice supported by broad customer use.
Choosing the Right 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Suspension Kit: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Compatibility
Correct fitment is the fundamental requirement for any suspension kit for the 2009-2013 Subaru Forester. A kit that does not match the vehicle s mounting points, spring rates, or strut lengths can cause handling problems, abnormal tire wear, or even unsafe conditions.
When evaluating fitment, check whether the kit is specified for the 2009-2013 Forester range and whether it requires additional brackets or factory part reuse. Also confirm whether the kit affects related systems such as ABS sensors, sway bar end links, and bump stops. Proper compatibility reduces installation time and the likelihood of follow-up modifications.
Ride Quality and Comfort
Ride quality depends on the spring rates, damper tuning, and the degree of adjustability a kit provides. For many Forester owners, the goal is a controlled ride that still absorbs typical road imperfections. Firmer performance setups can improve body control but often transmit more harshness to the cabin.
Consider how you use the Forester daily. If you encounter a lot of rough pavement or long highway drives, prioritize kits with progressive springs or tuned dampers that balance control and comfort. For drivers wanting a firmer feel, look for kits with user-adjustable damping to fine-tune on-road behavior.
Ground Clearance and Travel
Ground clearance matters for Forester owners who commute on poor roads or occasionally explore unpaved routes. Lift kits and some coilover setups can raise the vehicle, increasing clearance and enabling larger tires. However, raising ride height can alter suspension geometry and increase loads on CV joints and control arms.
Evaluate how much lift or drop is appropriate: modest increases preserve factory suspension travel and driveline angles, while large changes may require additional components. Make sure the kit provides sufficient shock travel for the intended use to avoid premature bottoming or topping out.
Durability and Corrosion Resistance
Suspension components are exposed to road debris, water, and salt, so corrosion resistance and build quality are key. Look for coatings on springs, zinc plating on fasteners, and durable seals on dampers to extend service life. Poorly protected parts can seize, rust through, or lose performance sooner than expected.
Durability also covers bushing materials and bearing quality in assemblies that replace top mounts or include plates. Robust construction reduces future maintenance and helps preserve alignment settings over longer intervals.
Installation Complexity and Parts Completeness
Some kits are direct replacements that bolt in with basic tools and a wheel alignment afterward; others require cutting, reusing factory parts, or installing additional brackets. Installation difficulty affects both cost and the likelihood that owners will complete the job correctly.
Choose kits that include all necessary hardware if you want a straightforward install. If a kit is listed as partly incomplete, plan for additional parts and possibly professional installation. Consider whether the top mounts, strut bearings, and any extended bump stops are included to avoid repeat disassembly.
Adjustability and Tuning Options
Adjustability—whether in ride height, damping force, or corner-specific spring rates—lets you tailor the Forester s behavior to your preferences. Coilover kits typically offer the most adjustment, while fixed spring and strut packages may limit you to a single setup.
Decide how much fine-tuning you want. If you anticipate changing tire sizes or ride height later, a kit with modular adjustability will save time and money. Also evaluate the ease of making adjustments and whether they require disassembly or can be performed with the vehicle on the ground.
Lift Versus Lowering: Which Suits Your Forester?
A primary decision for many Forester owners is whether to raise or lower the vehicle. Lifting increases ground clearance and tire clearance for mild off-road use, while lowering improves center-of-gravity and often sharpens steering response for street driving. Both approaches have tradeoffs in ride comfort and component stress.
If your drives include gravel roads, modest lifts are generally more practical. For street-focused drivers who want a sportier stance without harshness, moderate lowering with matched dampers can improve cornering without sacrificing daily comfort.
- Lift: better clearance and approach/departure angles, may require alignment and driveline checks
- Lowering: improved handling and reduced body roll, possible reduced suspension travel and increased risk of bottoming
Coilover Kits and When to Choose Them
Coilover kits offer the broadest range of tuning, combining adjustable height with damping options. They are a strong choice when you want precise control of ride height and can accept a more involved setup process.
For the 2009-2013 Forester, coilovers are attractive to owners planning to change ride height frequently, run larger tires, or tune handling for spirited driving. Keep in mind coilovers typically require alignment and may need corner-by-corner tuning for balanced behavior.
- Great for adjustable ride height and damping
- Often preferred by owners who plan repeated setup changes or performance tuning
Strut and Spring Kits for Practical Upgrades
Strut and spring kits are commonly chosen for a straightforward balance of improved handling and preserved comfort. These kits replace the worn factory components with matched parts designed to work together, reducing the risk of mismatched behavior.
They are often simpler to install than full coilovers and provide predictable results for drivers seeking better control without the complexity of a fully adjustable system.
- Simpler installation than coilovers
- Good for restoring handling and replacing aged suspension components
Impact On Tire Wear And Alignment
Any suspension kit that changes ride height or spring rates will affect alignment settings and tire wear patterns. After installation, a proper alignment is essential to prevent premature wear and to ensure predictable handling. Adjustments to camber, toe, and caster may be necessary depending on the kit.
Consider whether the kit requires additional alignment hardware or camber bolts to maintain acceptable tire life under the new setup.
- Plan for a post-install alignment
- Higher lifts or aggressive lowering can increase tire wear without corrective camber adjustments
Maintenance And Service Intervals
Suspension upgrades can change maintenance priorities. Stiffer setups may transmit more load to bushings, mounts, and fasteners, which can show wear sooner. Periodic inspections of seals, hardware torque, and bushing condition help catch issues early.
Choose kits with serviceable components or readily available replacement parts to simplify long-term ownership. Knowing the expected service intervals for dampers and springs helps budget for routine upkeep.
- Inspect mounts, fasteners, and seals regularly
- Choose kits with replaceable wear parts to simplify future maintenance
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Forester configuration to see the most relevant Suspension Kits recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Suspension Kit
Our selection focused on products and packages suited specifically to the 2009-2013 Subaru Forester. We prioritized kits that clearly list fitment for the model year range and that address common Forester use cases such as daily driving on mixed roads, occasional light off-road use, and sportier street handling. Key evaluation criteria included demonstrated fit accuracy, ride quality reports, durability of critical components, and the range of adjustability offered.We also considered installation complexity and parts completeness, favoring kits that include the main wearable components drivers typically replace together, such as matching struts and springs or a coherent coilover package. Corrosion protection and serviceability were weighed because road salt and long-term maintenance matter to Forester owners in many climates. Exclusions: we did not include one-off specialty builds, incomplete component lists that require significant additional purchases, or kits without clear fitment data for 2009-2013 Forester models.Finally, editorial judgment favored balanced options that deliver measurable improvements in ride or clearance without unnecessary compromise to everyday comfort. The result is a curated set of six kits that span lift, lowering, and performance-focused approaches while remaining appropriate for the Forester years covered.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will a suspension kit affect my Forester s warranty?
Modifying the suspension can affect warranty coverage depending on the region and the specific warranty terms. Often, warranty claims for components directly affected by the modification can be impacted, while unrelated systems may remain covered. Check your warranty documents or consult a dealer to understand how changes may apply.
Can I install a suspension kit at home or should I use a shop?
Many strut and spring kits can be installed by a competent DIYer with the right tools and a safe work environment. More complex installs, such as coilovers or kits requiring alignment hardware changes, are better handled by a professional to ensure safety and correct setup. If in doubt, budget for a shop install and alignment.
How much does changing ride height change alignment needs?
Any notable change in ride height will alter suspension geometry and typically requires a full alignment. Small, factory-level changes may only need minor adjustments, but larger lifts or drops often require camber and toe corrections to maintain proper tire wear and handling.
Will a lift kit require different tires or wheels?
A modest lift can create room for slightly larger tires, but wheel offset and brake clearance must be considered. In many cases, stock wheels will remain usable, but selecting taller or wider tires may require changes to avoid rubbing. Consult fitment guidance for tire and wheel sizing after a lift.
How long do suspension components typically last after upgrading?
Lifespan depends on usage, climate, and build quality. High-quality dampers and springs can last many years under normal driving, while aggressive off-road use or corrosive environments shorten life. Regular inspections and maintenance extend component longevity.
Do I need new strut mounts or sway bar links when I install a kit?
Sometimes. If the kit alters ride height significantly or includes different damper top assemblies, new mounts or updated sway bar links may be required to maintain correct geometry and avoid binding. Check the kit documentation for included parts and recommended ancillary replacements.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right suspension kit for a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester comes down to aligning the kit s strengths with how you drive. Prioritize correct fitment, the level of adjustability you actually need, and the balance between ride comfort and handling performance. Also consider durability and maintenance to avoid surprises down the road.For most Forester owners, a matched strut and spring kit or a modestly adjustable coilover provides the best balance between improved handling and everyday comfort. If ground clearance is a priority, select a lift kit that preserves suspension travel and driveline angles. Use the buying factors above to narrow options and plan for professional alignment after installation.
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