Parts for your 2006 Subaru Impreza-Struts

2006 Subaru Impreza struts — what they do, and when to sort them out

Struts absolutely are used on the 2006 Subaru Impreza. Technical references including the 2006 Subaru Impreza Factory Service Manual (Suspension section), the Subaru FAST parts catalogue, and mainstream application guides from KYB and Monroe all specify MacPherson struts at the front and rear across the GD/GG series (base, WRX, and STI). The STI variant uses an inverted strut design, but it’s still very much a strut layout.

On this Impreza, the strut is the backbone of each corner: it supports the vehicle’s weight through the spring, damps bumps to keep tyres planted, and locates the wheel so alignment (particularly camber) stays where it should. That’s why a tidy set of struts makes such a difference to steering feel, braking stability, and day-to-day comfort. The top mounts and bearings let the front end steer smoothly, while dust boots and bump stops protect the moving bits from Aussie and Kiwi road grime.

As a rule of thumb, struts can feel tired anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 kilometres depending on roads, loads, and driving style. Many owners plan a refresh around the 100,000–120,000 km mark. Tell-tales include a choppy ride, extra bounce after speed humps, nose-dive under brakes, cupping or uneven tyre wear, a light knocking over sharp bumps, or a mist of oil on the strut body.

• Replace struts in axle pairs for balanced handling.
• Book a full wheel alignment straight after the job.
• It’s smart to renew top mounts, bearings, bump stops and dust boots at the same time.
• Inspect sway bar links and control arm bushes while the wheels are off.

DIYers should use quality spring compressors and follow the Factory Service Manual torque specs. If the car has STI inverted struts, take extra care with orientation and sealing. For a workshop service plan, a quick check for leaks, bushing play, and uneven tyre wear every 20,000 km keeps things on track. Fresh struts won’t just smooth the commute — they can also help a vehicle breeze through a WOF or roadworthy, save tyres from premature wear, and keep that classic Impreza turn-in sharp.

Do all 2006 Subaru Impreza models have struts front and rear?
Yes. Technical references including the 2006 Subaru Impreza Factory Service Manual and Subaru FAST parts catalogue specify MacPherson struts at both ends for GD/GG-series Impreza, covering 2.0/2.5, WRX, and STI. The STI uses an inverted (upside-down) strut, but the layout remains strut-type.

How long do struts last on a 2006 Impreza?
Many last 80,000–150,000 km, with road quality and driving style making the big difference. If ride comfort drops off, the car bounces after bumps, or there’s uneven tyre wear or oil on the strut, it’s time to plan a replacement.

Can coilovers replace the factory struts?
Yes, coilovers can be fitted in place of struts, but owners should pick quality gear and be mindful of legality and certification. In NZ, LVV certification may be required, in Australia, engineering approval and compliance with ride height rules may apply. Insurance and WOF/roadworthy checks should also be considered.