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Understanding Subaru Window Motors: 7-Tooth vs 8-Tooth Setups
Subaru Window Motors: 7-Tooth vs 8-Tooth
Replacing a window motor on a Subaru Tribeca or Liberty? There's one detail you need to know before you order. Here's what the difference is, why it matters, and what we supply.
Early Subaru Tribeca and Liberty models used a 7-tooth gear setup. Subaru later revised this to an 8-tooth design. That one extra tooth makes a noticeable difference in noise, smoothness, and longevity.
7-Tooth Setup
- Found on early Tribeca & Liberty models
- More gear lash (play between teeth)
- Slightly noisier operation
- More wear over time
8-Tooth Setup
- Subaru's updated design
- Reduced gear lash for smoother travel
- Quieter window operation
- Better force distribution = longer life
🔧 We supply the 8-tooth motor — and it fits both setups
Our replacement motors use the improved 8-tooth design, which is fully compatible with both 7-tooth and 8-tooth regulators. That means you can install it regardless of which version your vehicle originally came with — no modifications needed.
You get the upgraded performance without any extra hassle.
Drop-in compatible: Our 8-tooth motor fits vehicles that originally had the 7-tooth setup. No regulator swap required.
Find the right motor for your Subaru below.
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Find Your Subaru Replacement Motor
Brand new, bench-tested, and backed by warranty. Same-day dispatch on orders placed before 1 PM AEST.
Not sure which motor you need? Call us on 0410 913 385 or visit our Contact Page — we're happy to help.