Parts for your 2006 Subaru Impreza-Steering bushes

2006 Subaru Impreza Steering Bushes

Yes — the 2006 Subaru Impreza is fitted with steering rack mounting bushes, so “steering-bushes” are absolutely relevant to this model. This is documented in the 2006 Subaru Impreza Factory Service Manual (Steering section), the Subaru FAST parts catalogue listing the steering gear mounting bush components, and widely supported by aftermarket fitment guides from specialist bush manufacturers covering 2001–2007 Impreza/WRX/STI models.

On the 2006 Impreza, the steering rack bushes cradle the rack on the front crossmember. Their job is to locate the rack solidly while soaking up vibration and road shock, so steering feels precise without rattles or harshness. As the original rubber ages, heat, oil splash and general use can soften or crack the material. That’s when the rack can shift under load, which shows up as vague on‑centre feel, a light clunk over bumps, or a steering wheel that doesn’t quite return as cleanly as it used to.

During regular servicing, it’s smart to check the steering bushes whenever the front end is up — especially past the 100,000 km mark. Look for perished rubber, splits, or oil swelling from power steering leaks. Any visible rack movement when someone rocks the wheel left-right is a giveaway. If replacement is needed, the job is straightforward for a competent tech: support the rack, remove the mounting bolts and old bushes, fit fresh items, then torque everything to the factory spec from the service manual. A wheel alignment check is recommended afterwards, as small changes in rack position can nudge toe settings.

Owners have a choice between new OEM-style rubber for comfort, or polyurethane for sharper response. Poly bushes firm up the rack location nicely on a daily driver without going overboard, though they can transmit a touch more road feel. Either way, getting rid of sloppy, oil-soaked originals makes an immediate difference to steering accuracy and confidence.

• Tell-tales for worn bushes: clunks over potholes, tramlining, or a floaty, delayed response to steering inputs.
• Good practice: inspect bushes at each major service, fix any power steering leaks first, and retorque hardware after a short bedding-in drive.
• Time and cost: usually a quick job — often under two hours with alignment check.

Popular questions about 2006 Subaru Impreza steering bushes

What are the signs my Impreza’s steering rack bushes need replacing?
Common signs include a dull clunk over speed humps, a wandering or inconsistent steering feel on the motorway, and visible rack movement when someone rocks the steering wheel while the car is on stands. Uneven or accelerated front tyre wear can also creep in if the rack shifts under load.

If the power steering has been leaking, the oil can swell and soften the rubber, speeding up wear. Sorting leaks first stops new bushes from degrading prematurely.

Should I choose polyurethane or rubber bushes?
Rubber is close to factory feel and keeps noise and vibration down — great if comfort is the priority. Polyurethane tightens up the on‑centre feel and response, which enthusiasts appreciate, especially on WRX/STI trims. Expect a little extra road texture through the wheel with poly, but most drivers find the trade-off well worth it.

Do I need a wheel alignment after changing steering rack bushes?
It’s a good idea. While you’re not touching the tie rods directly, the rack can sit a fraction differently once the new bushes are in. A quick alignment check ensures toe is bang on and the steering wheel sits dead straight.