Parts for your 2006 Subaru Legacy-Steering bushes

2006 Subaru Legacy steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Technical references confirm the 2006 Subaru Legacy (BL/BP) does use steering bushes. The Subaru Legacy/Outback 2005–2009 factory service manual (Steering section) shows rubber “mount bushing” components securing the rack-and-pinion to the front crossmember. Genuine Subaru parts catalogues list these rack mount bushes for 2006 variants, and major suspension brands such as Whiteline and SuperPro publish direct-fit polyurethane rack-bushing kits for 2004–2009 Legacy/Outback. So yes—steering-bushes are a relevant, serviceable item on the 2006 Subaru Legacy.

On this model, the steering bushes locate the steering rack firmly on the subframe while isolating noise and vibration. When the original rubber softens, cracks, or swells (often from age, heat, or power-steering fluid leaks), the rack can shift under load. Drivers notice vague on-centre feel, a clunk as the wheel is turned, more kickback over corrugations, and even a tendency to tramline. Left too long, it can contribute to uneven tyre wear and an annoying knock through the column.

Replacement is a straightforward service task. With the car supported safely, the rack is supported, the bracket bolts are removed, and the bush halves are swapped over—usually one side at a time. If upgrading to polyurethane, the supplied grease is used on the bush-to-rack interface to prevent squeaks. Bracket bolts are tightened to the workshop manual spec, and a quick alignment check is recommended afterwards. It rarely shifts alignment much, but it’s smart practice—especially if other front-end work has been done.

Good servicing habits for a 2006-subaru-legacy steering-bushes setup include:

• Inspect every 20,000–30,000 km or at major services, and anytime there’s a steering clunk or vague feel.
• Check for power-steering fluid leaks at the rack and lines, fix leaks first or new bushes won’t last.
• Assess tie-rod ends, lower control arm bushes, and sway-bar D-bushes while you’re there.
• Choose quality OEM rubber for factory comfort, or polyurethane for sharper response and durability on rough Aussie and Kiwi roads.

For most daily drivers in Australia and New Zealand, fresh OEM rubber restores that tidy factory feel. Enthusiasts or those tackling spirited backroads may prefer polyurethane for extra precision. Either way, healthy steering bushes keep the Legacy tracking straight, quiet, and confidence-inspiring—exactly how it should feel after a proper service.

Popular questions about 2006 Subaru Legacy steering-bushes

How do I know my 2006 Legacy’s steering bushes are worn?
Common signs include a dull clunk as you nudge the wheel left-right, vague on-centre feel, and the rack visibly shifting if a helper rocks the steering while you watch the rack mounts. You might also feel more kickback over potholes and notice light tramlining.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s better for a daily driver?
Rubber mimics factory comfort and isolation, perfect for commuting and long trips. Polyurethane adds sharper response and lasts longer, but can transmit a touch more road feel. In mixed Aussie/NZ conditions, either is fine—pick based on how much steering feedback you like.

Do I need an alignment or WOF/RWC check after replacement?
It’s wise to get a wheel alignment check, especially if multiple front-end parts were touched. For WOF/RWC, fresh, correctly fitted bushes help—excess free play or loose mounts can fail an inspection, so ensure all fasteners are torqued to spec.