Understanding Subaru Window Motors: 7-Tooth vs 8-Tooth Setups

If you’re working on a Subaru Tribeca or Liberty, you might come across two different types of window motor and regulator setups—7-tooth and 8-tooth. This small detail can make a big difference when it comes to performance and reliability.

What's the Difference?

Early versions of these Subaru models were equipped with a 7-tooth gear setup on the window motor and regulator. Later on, Subaru introduced a revised 8-tooth version.

The difference? That one extra tooth helps:

🔧 Reduce gear lash (the “play” or looseness between gear teeth)
🔇 Lower mechanical noise during window operation
🛠️ Improve long-term reliability by distributing force more evenly

It’s a subtle but effective upgrade.

 

Our Solution

We supply the 8-tooth motor, which is not only the improved version but also fully compatible with both 7 and 8-tooth regulators. That means you can install it regardless of which version your vehicle originally came with—no extra parts or modifications needed.

So if you're replacing a faulty window motor on your Subaru, make the switch to the 8-tooth setup for smoother, quieter, and longer-lasting performance.

 

 

📞 How can I reach you?
Call us on 0410 913 385 or use our Contact Page. We’re happy to help!