The first generation Subaru Forester (model years 1998 to 2002, sometimes referred to as the SF chassis) has earned a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts and DIY mechanics. Its rugged yet car-like platform offers a comfortable ride on pavement and surprising capability on light trails. However, after two decades, the factory suspension components are often worn out or simply inadequate for more aggressive use. Understanding the available suspension parts and upgrades is key to maintaining or improving your Forester’s handling, ride quality, and off-road ability.
Shop on Amazon
Browse the latest options and prices.
TUCAREST 12Pc Suspension Kit Fit For 2009-13 Su-baru Forester, 2 Front Lower Control Arm + 2 Ball jo
Overview of 1st Gen Forester Suspension
The SF Forester uses a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multilink rear suspension. The struts are coil-over units, meaning the spring is mounted on the strut body. The rear features separate springs and shock absorbers. This design shares many parts with the Impreza of the same era, which is helpful when searching for replacements or upgrades. The suspension geometry is tuned for a softer, more compliant ride than the Impreza, with longer travel and a higher ride height.
Common Wear and Failure Points
- Struts and shocks: The primary damping components wear out after 60,000-80,000 miles, leading to bouncy ride, excessive body roll, and poor handling.
- Springs: Rear sag is common, especially if the vehicle is used for hauling or towing. Sagging springs reduce ground clearance and cause a nose-up stance.
- Bushings: Control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and trailing arm bushings dry out and crack, causing clunks and vague steering.
- Sway bar end links: These plastic or metal links wear and cause knocking noises over bumps.
- Strut mounts: Front strut mounts can fail, leading to noise and misalignment.
Shock and Strut Options
Replacing the struts and shocks is the most impactful suspension upgrade. There are three main categories: OEM replacements, performance shocks, and adjustable units.
OEM Replacement Struts
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) struts from Subaru restore the factory ride. They are soft, durable, and predictable. If you want a stock-like feel and your car is primarily a daily driver, OEM is a safe bet. However, they are not ideal for off-road or spirited driving.
Performance Shocks
Brands like KYB, Monroe, and Bilstein offer direct-fit gas-charged shocks. The KYB Excel-G is a popular OEM-quality replacement with slightly firmer damping. The Bilstein B6 (formerly HD) is a firmer, more performance-oriented shock that reduces body roll and improves steering response. For the rear, Monroe Sensa-Trac or KYB Gas-a-Just provide good value.
Adjustable Coilovers
For those who want maximum adjustability, coilovers are available from companies like BC Racing, Fortune Auto, and Feal. They allow ride height and damping adjustment. However, most coilovers are designed for lowered stance rather than off-road lift, so choose carefully. The BC Racing BR series offers a comfortable yet sporty ride for a lowered Forester.
Lift Kits and Spring Options
Many owners want to increase ground clearance for off-road use. Lifting a 1st gen Forester is straightforward, using either strut spacers, spring spacers, or taller springs.
Strut Top Spacer Lifts
A strut top spacer kit (e.g., from ADF, Anderson Design & Fabrication) raises the vehicle by placing a spacer between the strut and the body. These are simple to install, maintain factory ride quality, and allow you to run larger tires. A 1-2 inch lift is common without major driveline modifications.
Raised Springs
Aftermarket raised springs (such as those from King Springs or Rallitek) increase ride height by having a longer free length. They also have a higher spring rate to prevent sag when loaded. Paired with longer travel shocks, they provide a genuine lift without preload spacers. This method preserves suspension droop and articulation.
Legacy/Outback Spring Swap
A budget lift method involves swapping in taller springs from a Subaru Outback or Legacy of similar vintage. Outback springs are about 0.5-1 inch taller and have a slightly higher rate. This is a common junkyard upgrade, but you may need to replace struts as well.
Lowering Springs
For a sportier look and improved handling, lowering springs (e.g., Eibach Pro-Kit, H&R) lower the car about 1-1.5 inches. This reduces body roll and improves cornering, but sacrifices ground clearance and ride comfort. Make sure to use the correct bump stops to avoid bottoming out.
Sway Bars and Bushings
Upgrading sway bars reduces body roll and improves handling without much ride penalty.
Rear Sway Bar Upgrade
The stock rear sway bar is thin (about 13mm). A 19mm or 20mm bar from a WRX or STI (1993-2001 Impreza) bolts directly onto the Forester. This is a cheap and effective upgrade. You will also need new bushings and end links. Whiteline makes adjustable bars for precise tuning.
Front Sway Bar
The front sway bar is more involved to replace but also beneficial. A 20mm-24mm bar from a WRX fits with minor modifications. Increasing front bar stiffness reduces understeer, but going too thick can make the car oversteer. A 22mm bar is a good all-around choice.
Polyurethane Bushings
Replacing rubber bushings with polyurethane (e.g., Whiteline, SuperPro) greatly improves steering precision and reduces slop. The most impactful are the front control arm rear bushings and the rear trailing arm bushings. Sway bar bushings are also easy to upgrade. Polyurethane does transmit more vibration, so consider a blend for daily use.
Practical Recommendations
- For a comfortable daily driver: Replace worn struts with KYB Excel-G or Bilstein B6, install fresh top hats and bump stops, and swap to poly control arm bushings. If the rear sags, add King raised springs.
- For off-road and overlanding: Use a 2-inch strut spacer lift combined with King springs. Pair with Bilstein 5100 shocks (longer travel versions) and a 19mm WRX rear sway bar. Upgrade to all-terrain tires.
- For sporty street driving: Lower the car with Eibach springs on KYB AGX adjustable shocks. Add a 22mm adjustable rear sway bar and poly bushings throughout. This combination minimizes body roll and sharpens turn-in.
Final Recommendation
A Subaru Forester with refreshed suspension parts feels like a new vehicle. Prioritize replacing worn struts and bushings before adding lift or lowering springs. Use quality components from reputable brands – avoid cheap no-name parts that will wear out quickly. Whether you want to improve the ride of your daily driver, build an off-road adventure rig, or create a canyon carver, the 1st gen Forester has plenty of options. Choose parts that match your driving style and maintain realistic expectations about ride comfort and durability. With proper maintenance and the right upgrades, your Forester will serve you well for many more miles.