Parts for your 2004 Subaru Impreza-Suspension bushes

2004 Subaru Impreza — Suspension Bushes

Suspension bushes absolutely are used on the 2004 Subaru Impreza. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY2004 Impreza (Chassis sections covering Front and Rear Suspension) and OEM parts catalogues for the GD/GG platform specify multiple rubber bushings throughout the suspension: front lower control arm bushes (front and rear positions), front and rear stabiliser (sway) bar bushes and links, rear lateral link bushes, trailing arm bushes, and rear subframe bushes. These components are integral to how the car steers, rides, and keeps alignment under load.

On this Impreza, suspension bushes sit between metal parts to allow controlled movement while isolating noise, vibration and harshness. They help the arms pivot smoothly, keep tyres square to the road, and protect the chassis from impact shock. When the bushes are healthy, the car tracks straight, turns predictably, and rides without knocks or shudders.

• Common signs they’re tired: clunks over bumps, vague steering, shudder on braking, uneven tyre wear, and wandering on the motorway.
• Visual clues: split rubber, perished edges, leaking (on fluid-filled types), or arms sitting off-centre in their mounts.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the Impreza’s bushes every 20,000–40,000 km or annually if it sees rough roads. Many last well past 100,000 km, but age, heat and potholes accelerate wear. Front lower control arm rear bushes and rear trailing arm bushes are frequent offenders on the GD/GG.

Replacement tips for this model: press-fit bushes require proper tools and support to avoid twisting the arm. Torque fasteners at normal ride height, not with the suspension hanging, or the rubber will be preloaded and fail early. After any bush replacement, a full four-wheel alignment is recommended to dial in camber, caster and toe.

Choosing materials: genuine-style rubber keeps OE comfort and compliance, ideal for daily duty. Quality polyurethane tightens steering and response, suits spirited driving, but can transmit a bit more vibration. If going poly on sway bars or control arms, use the correct grease and re-grease as recommended to prevent squeaks. Avoid petroleum products on rubber, use silicone-based lubricants sparingly when fitting.

In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—heat, corrugations, and the odd gravel blast—proactive bushing care pays off. Replacing bushes in axle pairs keeps handling balanced, and a quick post-fit check after a few hundred kilometres ensures everything’s settled and torqued properly.

FAQs

How long do suspension bushes last on a 2004 Impreza?
Service life varies with driving and climate, but many see 80,000–150,000 km. City kerbs, gravel roads, and track days shorten that. Annual inspections catch cracks or movement before it affects tyres and braking.

Are polyurethane bushes a good idea for a daily-driven Impreza?
Poly bushes sharpen response and reduce deflection, great for enthusiastic driving. For a commuter, OE-style rubber keeps cabin comfort and road noise down. A mixed approach—poly on sway bars, rubber on control arms—often balances both.

Do new bushes require a wheel alignment?
Yes. Changing bush compliance alters geometry. A four-wheel alignment restores factory specs so the car tracks straight and tyres wear evenly.