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What material are Subarus made of?


Subaru vehicles are known for their durability, reliability, and unique engineering. As a trusted auto service provider with years of experience, I often get asked about the materials used in Subaru manufacturing. Understanding these materials can give you insight into why Subarus are so popular among car enthusiasts and why they perform so well in various conditions.


Primary Materials Used in Subaru Manufacturing


Subaru vehicles are crafted using a combination of high-quality materials designed to ensure safety, performance, and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of the primary materials used:



  • High-Strength Steel: Subaru extensively uses high-strength steel in the construction of their vehicle frames and bodies. This material provides excellent rigidity and crash protection while keeping the overall weight of the vehicle manageable.

  • Aluminum: To reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency, Subaru incorporates aluminum in various components, such as engine blocks, suspension parts, and hoods. Aluminum is lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for performance and efficiency.

  • Plastics and Composites: Modern Subarus use advanced plastics and composite materials for interior components, bumpers, and other non-structural parts. These materials are lightweight, durable, and resistant to wear and tear.

  • Glass: Subaru uses high-quality laminated and tempered glass for windshields and windows, ensuring visibility and safety.


Why These Materials Matter


The choice of materials in Subaru vehicles is not arbitrary. Each material is selected to meet specific goals:



  • Safety: High-strength steel and advanced engineering contribute to Subaru’s excellent crash test ratings, ensuring passenger safety.

  • Performance: Lightweight materials like aluminum improve handling and fuel efficiency without compromising strength.

  • Durability: Subaru vehicles are built to last, with materials that resist corrosion and wear over time.

  • Environmental Impact: Subaru is committed to sustainability, using recyclable materials and eco-friendly manufacturing processes.


Conclusion


Subaru’s thoughtful use of materials like high-strength steel, aluminum, and composites is a key factor in their reputation for safety, performance, and reliability. Whether you’re driving through snowy mountains or cruising on the highway, these materials ensure your Subaru is up to the task. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help you maintain your Subaru and keep it running like new for years to come. If you have any questions or need service, don’t hesitate to reach out!


Frequently Asked Questions

Are engine blocks steel or aluminum?


While iron engine blocks dominated the passenger vehicles industry during earlier decades, aluminum blocks have been taking over in recent years. Both are perfectly engineered to deliver efficient performance due to modern casting techniques.



What kind of frame does a Subaru have?


Subaru Vehicle Construction and Safety
Our Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame forms a “cage” around the cabin, bolstered by a pillar and frame. In the event of a high-impact crash, this frame is designed to absorb and evenly distribute the shock, regardless of any angle where a Subaru may be struck.



What metal are Subarus made of?


Highly Rigid Body
For an ideal balance of both of these qualities, Subaru has created a highly rigid and lightweight body by comprehensively using aluminum materials and high tensile steel plates throughout the vehicle.



What are Subaru bodies made of?


Highly Rigid Body
For an ideal balance of both of these qualities, Subaru has created a highly rigid and lightweight body by comprehensively using aluminum materials and high tensile steel plates throughout the vehicle.



What does Subaru mean in Japanese?


“unite
“SUBARU” signifies a Japanese word meaning “unite,” as well as a term identifying a cluster of six stars, which the Greeks called the Pleiades – part of the Taurus constellation. According to Greek mythology, Atlas' daughters turned into this group of stars.



Are subarus galvanized?


Most Subaru's are built using a variety of galvanized sheet metals; most panels are galvanized on both sides and some are galvanized after stamping to insure optimum protection.



Do Subarus have real leather?


Subaru offers four types of upholstery on various Outback models. Leather is available on the Limited XT. But the Touring XT gets a finer grade. Nappa leather goes through a more complex tanning process and is both softer and more durable than less expensive hides.



Is Subaru still owned by Toyota?


Subaru is a subsidiary of the Subaru Corporation, formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries, which Toyota does have a small stake in. That said, while Subaru does partner with Toyota on multiple models, such as the Solterra (built in a Toyota factory) and BRZ , it is still an independent company.



What are Subaru engine blocks made of?


The majority of Subaru blocks are instead high-pressure, die-cast aluminum, and although stout, do not have the same rigidity to withstand high boost pressure.



What is Subaru made in?


Today, Subaru vehicles are manufactured in both Japan and the United States, but our roots are in Japanese craftsmanship and engineering – tracing back to the early-20th century.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.