Subaru Crosstrek Rock Sliders - Protection for Off-Road Driving

Introduction to Subaru Crosstrek Rock Sliders

For Subaru Crosstrek owners looking to enhance the off-road capability of their vehicles, installing rock sliders is a great modification option. Rock sliders, also known as side steps or side bars, are sturdy metal bars that protect the vulnerable lower sides of a vehicle from impacts with rocks, trees, and other obstacles when off-roading. In this article, we'll discuss what rock sliders are, why Crosstrek owners may want to install them, and provide recommendations on high quality rock sliders designed specifically for the Subaru Crosstrek.

What are Rock Sliders?

Rock sliders are heavy duty protruding bars that run along the lower sides of a vehicle's body between the front and rear wheel wells. They act as "side steps" to prevent rocks, branches, and other debris from making contact with the vehicle's sheet metal body panels during off-road driving. Rock sliders absorb impact forces and slide along obstacles, protecting the sides from dents, scratches, and damage.

They are typically constructed from steel, aluminum, or heavy duty plastic and attach to the vehicle's frame or body at strategic structural mounting points. Quality rock sliders will have angled surfaces or end caps to help slide along rocks and other objects smoothly. Most rock sliders have a black powder coated or raw steel finish for durability and corrosion resistance.

Benefits of Adding Rock Sliders to a Subaru Crosstrek

Here are some of the key benefits of installing rock sliders on a Subaru Crosstrek:

• Protect the Crosstrek's vulnerable rocker panels, doors, and body sides from dents, scratches, and damage during off-road driving over rocky, uneven terrain.
• Allow the Crosstrek to slide safely over rocks, logs, and other trail obstacles that make side contact with the vehicle.
• Provide a sturdy step to enter and exit the Crosstrek's cabin more easily.
• Give added defense against tree branches or brush on narrow off-road trails.
• Offer additional rigidity and strength for hard off-road use and moderate wheeling.
• Provide a mount point for auxiliary off-road lights for enhanced trail visibility.
• Give the Crosstrek a more rugged, off-road ready appearance.

Top Rock Sliders for Subaru Crosstrek

When choosing rock sliders for your Subaru Crosstrek, you'll want sliders that are specifically designed to properly fit your vehicle's body lines and mounting points. Here are some of the top-rated rock slider options made for the Crosstrek:

Rago Fabrication Modular Rock Sliders

The Rago Fabrication Modular Rock Sliders are constructed from heavy duty 1.75" diameter steel tubing with a thick 3/16" wall thickness. They boast an angled design to optimize the sliding function and come powder coated in a durable black textured finish. The Rago rock sliders bolt onto existing factory holes and provide excellent body protection.

Primitive Racing Rock Sliders

Primitive Racing makes robust rock sliders for the Crosstrek crafted from 2" diameter steel tubing. They install using existing mount points and feature a modular design allowing the removal of steps for greater clearance. The Primitive Racing sliders have a raw steel appearance that many off-roaders prefer.

LP Aventure Rock Sliders

LP Aventure is well known for their Subaru aftermarket parts designed specifically for rally use. Their rock sliders are constructed from 1.5” steel tubing and come with an optional kick-out step. A durable black powder coated finish protects against corrosion and scratches.

C4 Fabrication Hybrid Rock Sliders

The C4 Fabrication Hybrid Rock Sliders feature a unique modular design that combines steel tubing along the top of the rails with an HD polyethylene board on the lower section. This provides great sliding ability along with improved clearance. The hybrid material reduces weight compared to full steel sliders.

Installing Subaru Crosstrek Rock Sliders

While rock sliders are relatively simple to install compared to many other vehicle modifications, it is still recommended to have them installed professionally by experienced mechanics. Here is an overview of the basic rock slider installation process:

Step 1 - Jack Up the Vehicle

Safely jack up the Crosstrek and support it on jack stands for full access to the lower body sides. Be sure to use jack stands rated for the vehicle's weight and place them on a solid, level surface. Chock the wheels as well.

Step 2 - Remove Interior Trim Pieces

Remove any necessary interior trim components from the floor and side walls to allow access to the rock slider mounting points. This may require unscrewing and removing parts like the side sill plates.

Step 3 - Test Fit the Rock Sliders

Test fit the new rock sliders against the vehicle body to ensure proper alignment with mounting holes and body contours before final installation. Some minor adjustment may be needed for optimal positioning.

Step 4 - Bolt on the Rock Sliders

Line up each rock slider with the correct factory holes or marked new holes. Use the supplied hardware to securely bolt the sliders onto the vehicle frame or body, torquing bolts to the specified setting.

Step 5 - Reinstall Trim and Lower Vehicle

With the rock sliders fully bolted on, reinstall any previously removed interior trim components. Double check that all hardware is tightened and properly secured. Carefully lower the Crosstrek off the jack stands.

Step 6 - Final Checks and Testing

With the vehicle lowered, visually inspect the rock sliders from all angles to ensure proper installation and alignment. Take the Crosstrek for a test drive, then recheck all slider hardware again. The install is now complete!

Maintaining and Using Rock Sliders

Once properly installed, your Subaru Crosstrek's new rock sliders require minimal ongoing maintenance. Here are some usage tips and maintenance best practices for rock sliders:

• Inspect slider hardware regularly and re-tighten if needed.
• Clean sliders after off-road trips to remove stuck dirt, mud or debris.
• Touch up any scrapes, chips or scratches in the powder coating to prevent corrosion.
• Apply a protectant/wax to keep the finish looking good.
• Take care not to use the rock sliders asfull-weight steps when entering the vehicle.
• Drive slowly and let the sliders slide along obstacles - don't smash into rocks.
• Remove accumulated brush and branches from the sliders to prevent catching.
• Get any significant dents, damage or bent sliders fixed and realigned.

Properly installed and maintained rock sliders will provide great protection and off-road capability for your Crosstrek for years to come! Be sure to use sound judgment when wheeling to get the most out of your new sliders.

FAQs

What are the benefits of installing rock sliders on my Crosstrek?

The main benefits are protecting the sides of your Crosstrek from dents, scratches and damage when off-roading over rocky terrain. Rock sliders allow you to slide safely over rocks and obstacles. They also give you sturdy steps to enter the vehicle more easily.

Will rock sliders reduce the ground clearance of my Crosstrek?

Most rock sliders are designed specifically for the Crosstrek to maintain optimal ground clearance. Certain modular designs even allow removing steps when needed for more clearance in deep ruts or over obstacles.

How difficult is it to install rock sliders on a Crosstrek?

Rock sliders bolt onto existing factory mounts so they are relatively simple for experienced mechanics to install compared to other mods. That said, professional installation is still recommended unless you really know what you're doing.

How durable and protective are good rock sliders?

High quality rock sliders from reputable brands are very durable, made from thick steel or aluminum tubing. They are designed to take repeated impacts from rocks and debris without damage when used properly.

Do I need to modify my Crosstrek to install rock sliders?

No modifications to the Crosstrek are needed for most rock slider brands. The sliders use existing mounts and holes. You may just need to temporarily remove some interior trim pieces for installation access.