Parts for your 2006 Subaru Forester-Suspension bushes

2006 Subaru Forester Suspension Bushes

Technical sources confirm the 2006 Subaru Forester (SG) uses suspension bushes throughout its chassis. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the SG Forester (Front Suspension and Rear Suspension sections), Subaru’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST), and recognised aftermarket catalogues for the SG platform all list front lower control arm bushes, rear trailing arm and lateral link bushes, plus stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes and link bushes. So yes—suspension bushes are absolutely fitted to the 2006 Forester and they’re vital to the way it rides, steers, and handles.

On this model, bushes sit at key pivot points to isolate vibration, keep noise down, and allow controlled movement of arms and links as the suspension travels. They help maintain alignment under braking and cornering, reduce harshness over corrugations, and keep steering feel tidy on both bitumen and gravel. When they’re fresh, the Forester tracks straight, responds neatly, and keeps tyres wearing evenly.

Like any rubber component, bushes age with heat, load, time, and exposure to oils. Once worn, they can let arms shift around, upsetting alignment and stability. Common signs include:

• Clunks or knocks over bumps, especially from the front.
• Vague or darting steering, tramlining, or pulling under brakes.
• Uneven or rapid tyre wear and a bit more road noise or vibration.

Good practice for a Forester in Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to have bushes inspected at each service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. A tech will look for cracking, splitting, rubber separation, excessive movement under a pry-bar test, and perished sway bar D-bushes. If replacement’s needed, there are two main approaches: press new bushes into existing arms/links, or fit complete arms/links pre-bushed. Either way, always replace in axle pairs, torque all fasteners at normal ride height, and book a full wheel alignment straight after—bush work changes geometry.

Choosing parts comes down to priorities. OEM-style rubber keeps comfort and low NVH, ideal for touring and daily use. Quality polyurethane or heavy-duty options sharpen response and last well, but can add a touch more firmness. For sway bar D-bushes, measure the bar diameter to get the right size. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants on rubber, and if fitting polyurethane, use the correct grease provided. A Forester with healthy bushes feels tight, sure-footed, and easy on tyres—exactly how it should.

Popular questions about 2006 Subaru Forester suspension bushes

How long do the suspension bushes typically last?
Most Forester bushes will see 100,000–200,000 km, but life depends on climate, road quality, load, and driving style. Lots of gravel, heavy towing, or big potholes can shorten that. Regular inspections help pick up wear early before it affects tyres and alignment.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing bushes?
Yes. Changing bushes alters the resting position of arms and links, which shifts camber, caster, and toe. A proper four-wheel alignment right after bush work is the best way to protect tyres and restore crisp steering.

Will worn bushes fail a WOF or roadworthy?
They can. Excessive play, splits, or oil-soaked bushes that affect steering or braking stability are common reasons for WOF/RWC defects. If there’s clunking, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear, it’s worth getting them checked before inspection time.