Are control arm bushings covered under a Subaru warranty?
Coverage for control arm bushings under Subaru warranties is generally limited to defects in materials or workmanship; typical wear from driving is not covered. Exact terms vary by model year and region, so consult your warranty booklet or your local Subaru dealer for your specific vehicle.
Warranty coverage overview
Subaru’s factory warranties are organized into several categories. The following terms are commonly referenced in the United States, but they can differ by market and model year. The list below highlights how these warranties relate to suspension components like control arm bushings.
- Bumper-to-bumper (limited) warranty: typically 3 years or 36,000 miles, covering most components. Wear items and certain suspension parts may not be covered if they fail from normal use.
- Powertrain warranty: typically 5 years or 60,000 miles, covering engine, transmission, and certain drivetrain components. Suspension bushings are not a powertrain item and are generally not covered unless related to a defect affecting powertrain performance.
- Rust/corrosion (perforation) warranty: typically 5 years with unlimited miles in many markets. This coverage addresses corrosion and is not related to mechanical wear items such as bushings.
- Emissions warranty: covers specific emission-control components for a defined period, separate from mechanical suspension parts.
In summary, standard Subaru warranties focus on defects and major systems rather than routine wear and tear. Always verify current terms with Subaru or your local dealer for your exact vehicle year and market.
Are control arm bushings ever covered?
There are limited circumstances where control arm bushings might be covered under Subaru warranties or related programs.
- Defect in materials or workmanship identified within the warranty period, where the issue is proven to be a manufacturing fault rather than normal wear.
- Recall or service campaign addressing a suspension issue that includes bushings.
- Dealer or manufacturer goodwill adjustments offered in exceptional cases, often after a diagnostic review.
- Coverage under an extended warranty or service plan that explicitly includes suspension components.
Given the variability by model year and region, coverage is not guaranteed and depends on the specific terms in effect at the time of service. Always request a written diagnosis and confirmation of warranty eligibility from the dealer.
What to do if you suspect bushing wear
If you notice suspension-related symptoms such as clunking noises, degraded ride quality, or uneven tire wear, take these steps to determine coverage and next steps.
- Review your warranty booklet or Subaru's official materials for your model year to confirm coverage details for suspension components.
- Ask your Subaru dealer for a diagnostic focused on whether the issue is a defect or wear-related failure.
- Provide your vehicle’s VIN and service history to help the advisor determine eligibility.
- If the issue is diagnosed as a defect within warranty, request repair under warranty; if not, ask for a paid estimate or discuss potential goodwill options.
Keep written records of all communications, diagnostics, and quotes to support any warranty claim or goodwill request.
Summary
Control arm bushings are typically treated as wear items and are not commonly covered under Subaru’s standard bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranties. Coverage may apply if there is a defect in materials or workmanship, or under a recall or goodwill arrangement. Because terms vary by market, model year, and vehicle, always verify with your local Subaru dealer and review the current warranty terms for your exact vehicle.
