Front Strut: Inspection: Strut

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check for oil leaks.
Move the piston rod up and down to check that it operates smoothly without any hitch.
Piston rod play
- Measure the play as follows:
  Fix the outer shell in place and fully extend the rod. Set a dial gauge at the end of rod L [10 mm (0.39 in)], and then read the dial gauge indication P₁ while applying a force of W [20 N (2 kgf, 4 lb)] to the threaded portion. Apply a force of 20 N (2 kgf, 4 lb) from the opposite direction of "W", and then read the dial gauge indication P₂ .
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Damper Strut Dimension
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  
  Play limit (P ₁ + P ₂ ):
  
  0.8 mm (0.031 in)
  
  If the play exceeds limit, replace the strut.