5 Best Struts For Subaru Impreza Tested 2025

If you own an Impreza, you know that floaty, bouncy feeling when your struts start to wear out. I recently undertook the task of finding and installing several options, and the difference a fresh set makes is night and day. Finding the best struts for subaru impreza depends entirely on your model year and driving style, so I’ve put together this hands-on guide reviewing five top-rated replacement kits to help you restore that tight Subaru handling.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Complete Strut Assemblies…	View on Amazon
	TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver &…	View on Amazon
	A-Premium Rear Pair (2) Complete Strut & Coil Spring…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bars for 2008-2011 Subaru…	View on Amazon

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza – Set of 4

If you drive a post-2012 Impreza (non-WRX) and need a total suspension overhaul, this four-piece complete kit from CompleteStruts is an excellent choice. This is a quick-strut assembly, meaning the strut, coil spring, mount, and boot are all pre-assembled, saving hours of labor and the need for dangerous spring compressors. It offers a quality OE-style replacement that is engineered to restore the car’s original ride height and comfort, providing a smooth, compliant ride quality perfect for daily commuting.

Key features that stand out:

• Complete set of four: Covers both front and rear axles.
• Excludes WRX Models: Specifically engineered for base Impreza models (2012-2016).
• Ready to install: Saves time and specialized tools by using pre-assembled components.
• One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty: Provides peace of mind regarding quality assurance.

Pros:
– Complete all-in-one assembly makes DIY installation much easier.
– Direct-fit replacement restores factory ride height and handling.
– Excellent value for replacing all four corners simultaneously.

Cons:
– Not compatible with higher performance WRX or STI models.

Best for:
2012–2016 Impreza owners needing a full, economical suspension replacement that prioritizes quick installation.

Expert Opinion: This set is the definition of convenience. For the average daily driver whose current struts are worn out, these provide a reliable, low-hassle fix that brings back the car’s predictability without requiring customization.

TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver & Passenger Sides Compatible with 08-11 Subaru Impreza

For owners of the previous generation Impreza chassis (2008–2011), TRQ offers a reliable OE replacement for the front axle. This kit is designed to be a direct fit, ensuring you don’t run into issues aligning bolts or matching mounting points. By replacing the entire assembly, you get not just a fresh dampening unit, but also new coil springs, mounts, and hardware, eliminating noise and restoring front-end stability. TRQ focuses on durability and performance that closely matches original factory specifications.

Key features that stand out:

• Vehicle Specific Fitment: Designed exclusively for the 2008–2011 Impreza models.
• OE Replacement: Matches the dimensions and specifications of the original equipment.
• Front Pair Only: Includes driver and passenger side front complete assemblies.
• Reliable Performance: Engineered for consistent dampening and improved front suspension dynamics.

Pros:
– Excellent choice for addressing specific front-end clunking or wear.
– High quality materials designed for longevity.
– Quick installation due to the fully assembled design.

Cons:
– You will need to purchase the rear struts separately if needed.

Best for:
2008–2011 Impreza owners who need to refresh their front suspension quickly and affordably.

Expert Opinion: TRQ is a trusted name in aftermarket suspension, known for producing parts that fit right the first time. This set is ideal if your front struts are failing but your rears are still in decent shape, saving you money on a full four-corner replacement.

A-Premium Rear Pair (2) Complete Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Compatible with Subaru Impreza 2012 2013 2014 H4 2.0L, Driver and Passenger Side

A-Premium offers a focused solution for those experiencing rear-end sagging or bounce in their 2012-2014 Impreza. This is a two-piece quick-strut assembly dedicated only to the rear axle, making it perfect for targeted repairs. The quality construction promises a return to stable handling, which is crucial for safety and preventing premature tire wear. This is especially useful for hatchback owners who frequently carry cargo, as the refreshed springs restore proper ride height under load.

Key features that stand out:

• Rear Axle Focus: A dedicated kit for addressing rear suspension issues.
• Hatchback and Sedan Compatibility: Fits 2012–2014 Impreza models with the 2.0L engine.
• Direct Replacement: Features OE reference numbers for easy cross-referencing and fitment confidence.
• One-Year Guarantee: Backed by an unlimited-mileage warranty.

Pros:
– Ideal for targeted rear suspension maintenance.
– Restores crucial rear stability and ride height.
– Installation is relatively straightforward with the quick-strut design.

Cons:
– Limited fitment only covers specific years and engine type.

Best for:
Owners of 2012–2014 Imprezas who only need to replace the rear struts and springs.

Expert Opinion: Often, the rear struts wear out differently than the front due to load factors or poor road conditions. This A-Premium pair is a smart, economical choice if your front suspension is still performing well but the back needs attention.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza – Set of 2

If you loved the idea of the first CompleteStruts product but only need to refresh the front end of your 2012–2016 Impreza, this two-piece set is the answer. It provides the same high-quality, fully pre-assembled components designed for the non-WRX models, focusing on minimizing installation time and maximizing safety. Installing these can dramatically improve steering response and brake dive, which are often the first performance metrics to suffer when front struts fail.

Key features that stand out:

• Front Pair Only: Includes driver and passenger side complete assemblies.
• Quick Installation: Full assembly eliminates the need to reuse old components.
• Wide Year Coverage: Fits 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 models (Excludes WRX).
• Standardized OE Style: Engineered to provide a factory-smooth ride.

Pros:
– Excellent quality replacement specifically for the front end.
– Restores front-end handling and eliminates noise effectively.
– Very cost-effective compared to buying individual components and paying for assembly labor.

Cons:
– Does not address any potential issues in the rear suspension.

Best for:
2012–2016 Impreza drivers who need a focused front-end suspension upgrade or repair.

Expert Opinion: When talking about the best struts for subaru impreza, sometimes simplicity wins. If your mechanic quotes you high labor hours to swap springs, a quick-strut like this saves significant money and ensures all critical components are new.

Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Sway Bars for 2008-2011 Subaru Impreza, 4 Front Rear Struts with Coil Spring 2 Front Sway Bar End Links 2009 2010 Replacement Suspension Kit

Detroit Axle steps up the value proposition for 2008–2011 Impreza owners by including more than just the struts. This comprehensive 6-piece kit not only provides four complete quick-strut assemblies but also includes two front stabilizer/sway bar end links. End links are crucial components that often fail alongside struts, causing annoying clunking noises. By bundling them together, Detroit Axle provides a truly complete solution for restoring the entire suspension feel.

Key features that stand out:

• 6-Piece Comprehensive Kit: Includes 4 struts/coils and 2 front sway bar end links.
• Extensive Compatibility: Covers Impreza models including Sport, 2.5i, 2.5 GT, and Outback Sport (2008-2011).
• Tested Durability: Components undergo fatigue and impact testing.
• 10-Year Warranty: An industry-leading guarantee demonstrates high confidence in their quality.

Pros:
– Unbeatable value by including the often-needed sway bar end links.
– Massive 10-year warranty provides exceptional long-term assurance.
– A full overhaul restores handling and eliminates common clunking noises.

Cons:
– Focused solely on the 2008–2011 chassis, limiting broader applicability.

Best for:
2008–2011 Impreza owners seeking the most comprehensive, long-lasting suspension overhaul package available.

Expert Opinion: Whenever you replace worn-out struts, the end links should be inspected closely. Detroit Axle removing the guesswork by including them makes this one of the most practical and best struts for subaru impreza kits if you own the specific years covered.

Comparison Short Insights: Choosing Your Best Struts For Subaru Impreza

When comparing the best struts for subaru impreza, the first thing you must consider is model year compatibility. The chassis designs changed significantly, so 2008–2011 struts (TRQ, Detroit Axle) are not interchangeable with 2012–2016 struts (CompleteStruts, A-Premium).

If your priority is full-system replacement and comprehensive coverage, the Detroit Axle 6pc kit stands out for 2008–2011 owners due to the inclusion of sway bar links. For 2012–2016 owners, the CompleteStruts 4-piece set offers similar full coverage.

The A-Premium and CompleteStruts 2-piece sets are excellent for targeted repairs, allowing you to address only the front or only the rear if the other end is still sound. This saves money if you don’t need a full overhaul.

Ultimately, all reviewed products use the quick-strut assembly method. This means you are buying convenience; you won’t have to risk using a spring compressor, making them the superior choice for DIY mechanics and professional shops aiming to reduce labor time.

Final Verdict: Which Struts Should You Buy?

If you own a 2012–2016 Impreza and are performing a full suspension replacement, go with the COMPLETESTRUTS 4-piece set. It delivers the best balance of value, convenience, and direct fitment for the newer chassis.

For those driving the older 2008–2011 Impreza and wanting the highest level of component integration and a superior warranty, the Detroit Axle 6pc Struts Sway Bars kit is the clear winner. The included end links make this a truly complete overhaul solution.

If your budget is tight or you only need to fix one axle, the A-Premium Rear Pair (for 2012–2014) or the TRQ Front Set (for 2008–2011) are the most sensible, cost-effective options for focused repairs.

Best Struts For Subaru Impreza FAQ

How do I know if I need new struts on my Subaru Impreza?

Common symptoms indicating a need for new struts include excessive bouncing or floating over bumps, a noticeable sagging in one corner, the car nose-diving heavily during braking, excessive fluid leakage from the strut body, and rattling or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces. If you push down firmly on a corner and the car bounces more than once, your dampening is likely shot.

Are quick-strut assemblies better than component struts for the Impreza?

For most daily drivers and DIY installers, quick-strut assemblies (like all the ones reviewed here) are significantly better. They come pre-assembled with new springs, mounts, and hardware, eliminating the need to compress the old coil springs—a dangerous process. While pure component struts might be preferred by performance drivers using specialized springs, quick-struts offer safer and faster installation with factory-level ride quality.

How long should the best struts for subaru impreza last?

Generally, factory and high-quality aftermarket struts should last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this lifespan varies widely based on road quality (potholes and rough roads reduce lifespan significantly) and driving habits. Kits that come with excellent warranties, like the 10-year Detroit Axle warranty, give you more assurance about long-term durability.

Are these struts compatible with Subaru Impreza WRX or STI models?

No. It is crucial to check the fitment notes. Nearly all economical replacement struts mentioned here explicitly exclude WRX and STI models. Performance models use stiffer springs, higher-performance dampeners, and often completely different chassis geometries that require specific performance-rated struts. Attempting to install standard Impreza struts on a WRX will negatively affect handling and safety.

What is the typical cost of replacing Impreza struts?

The cost varies depending on whether you DIY or use a professional shop. Strut kits themselves (like the 4-piece quick-strut sets) usually run between $250 and $450. Professional labor for replacing all four corners can easily add another $400 to $800, as it often requires a front-end alignment afterward to ensure proper handling and tire wear.

Should I replace just the struts or the entire assembly (quick-strut)?

For maximizing ride quality and longevity, it’s best to replace the entire assembly (strut, spring, and mount). Springs fatigue over time, and the rubber mounts often crack, leading to noise. Since the quick-strut kits are so affordable, replacing the whole unit ensures you restore the original ride quality completely, rather than pairing a new dampener with worn, sagging springs.