Parts for your 2006 Subaru Impreza-Suspension bushes

2006 Subaru Impreza Suspension Bushes

Suspension bushes are absolutely used on the 2006 Subaru Impreza. Technical references including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY2006 Impreza/WRX/STI (Front and Rear Suspension sections), Subaru Genuine Parts catalogues (listing front lower control arm bushes, stabiliser bar bushes, rear trailing arm and lateral link bushes, and differential mount bushes), and aftermarket technical catalogues from Whiteline and SuperPro for 2001–2007 Impreza confirm multiple serviceable bushes across the chassis.

On this generation Impreza, bushes are the quiet achievers. Pressed into arms and brackets, these rubber or polyurethane components isolate vibration, keep geometry steady, and let suspension arms move smoothly. When healthy, they help the car track straight, steer crisply, and brake without squirm. When tired, they can cause clunks, vague steering, uneven tyre wear, and a jittery ride, especially over corrugations or sharp edges.

Common bush locations on a 2006 Impreza include:

• Front lower control arm (front and rear bushes)
• Front and rear stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes and link bushes
• Rear trailing arm bushes and rear lateral link (inner/outer) bushes
• Rear differential mount and subframe bushes

For servicing, a sensible approach is a visual and lever-check at every 20,000 km or 12 months. Look for cracked or perished rubber, torn voids, shiny witness marks from movement, and oil-soaked bushes (engine or diff oil can degrade rubber). Any excessive free-play with a pry bar, or geometry shift under braking, points to replacement. After any bush work, a four-wheel alignment is essential to restore camber, caster, and toe.

Replacement typically involves pressing old bushes out and new ones in, or fitting complete arms where economical. Torque fasteners at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading the rubber. OEM rubber keeps factory compliance and low noise, ideal for daily driving. Quality polyurethane sharpens response and resists deformation, popular for spirited use, but may transmit a touch more vibration. Many owners refresh in pairs (left/right) to keep handling balanced, and stagger the job over front, then rear, to manage costs and downtime.

On higher-kilometre cars—especially those driven on rough Kiwi or Aussie roads—front lower control arm rear bushes and rear trailing arm bushes are frequent candidates. Proactive replacement before they’re completely flogged out preserves tyre life, keeps the Impreza’s steering honest, and saves stress on adjacent components.

Popular questions about 2006 Subaru Impreza suspension bushes

How long do suspension bushes last on a 2006 Impreza?
Service life varies with roads and driving style. Many factory rubber bushes last 80,000–150,000 kilometres, while some high-load points (front control arm rear, rear trailing arm) can age earlier. Polyurethane options often hold geometry longer but still require periodic inspection.

What are the signs the bushes need replacing?
Common signs include clunks over bumps, steering wander, braking instability, uneven or feathered tyre wear, and visible cracking or separation in the bush. A wheel alignment that won’t stay true can also hint at worn bushes.

Should owners choose OEM rubber or polyurethane?
Rubber keeps factory comfort and low NVH—great for commuting and touring. Polyurethane firms up response and durability, suiting enthusiastic driving or heavier loads. Either can be right, match the choice to how the car is used and consider a fresh alignment after fitting.