Parts for your 2006 Subaru Outback-Suspension bushes

2006 Subaru Outback Suspension Bushes

Suspension bushes absolutely apply to the 2006 Subaru Outback (BP/BL). Technical sources including the Subaru Legacy/Outback BP/BL Factory Service Manual (2005–2009, Front and Rear Suspension sections) and the Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue for MY06 show multiple bushes throughout the chassis: front lower control arm rear bushes, front sway-bar (stabiliser) D-bushes and link bushes, rear lateral link inner bushes, rear trailing arm front bushes, and rear subframe bushes. Aftermarket fitment guides from well-known brands that supply bush kits for the BP/BL platform back this up too, confirming the Outback relies on these rubber components for isolation and alignment control.

On this model, bushes isolate vibration, keep noise down and maintain precise wheel alignment as the suspension moves. They let control arms and links pivot smoothly without metal-on-metal contact, so the Outback rides quietly on coarse-chip roads and tracks straight on the motorway. When bushes wear, the geometry drifts under load and braking, so steering feel gets vague, tyres scrub, and knocks creep in over bumps.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth inspecting bushes every 20,000–30,000 kilometres or annually—more often if the Outback tows, sees corrugations, or lives near salt air. Look for cracked, torn or oil-soaked rubber, displaced sleeves, or excessive movement when levering the arm. Replacing tired bushes sharpens steering, stabilises braking and extends tyre life. Many front lower control arm rear bushes on these cars are press-fit, a shop press and the correct drivers make the job cleaner, though complete arm assemblies are an option when time is dear.

• Common symptoms: clunks over speed humps, wandering or tramlining, uneven tyre wear, steering shimmy under brakes, rear “steer” feeling mid-corner.
• Best practice: torque arm bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading new bushes.
• Wheel alignment: always book an alignment after bush or arm replacement.
• Material choice: quality OEM rubber keeps NVH stock-quiet, polyurethane can sharpen response but may add a touch more road feel/noise.
• Hardware and lube: replace single‑use fasteners and use the specified grease on polyurethane sleeves.

Look after the bushes and the 2006 Outback rewards with that planted, comfortable feel Subaru owners expect—whether it’s the school run, a B-road, or a gravel weekend away.

Popular questions

How long do suspension bushes last on a 2006 Subaru Outback?
In normal mixed driving, factory rubber bushes often last 120,000–200,000 kilometres. Heavy towing, rough roads, fluid leaks onto rubber, and big temperature swings can shorten that. Judging by feel alone can be tricky, so routine visual checks and a lever test during servicing are worth it.

Which bushes most commonly wear out on this model?
The front lower control arm rear bushes and the front sway-bar D-bushes are frequent culprits for knocks and vague steering. At the rear, trailing arm front bushes and lateral link inner bushes can develop play, showing up as rear-end steer or tyre wear on the inner edges.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing bushes?
Yes. Any time an arm or bush affecting camber, caster, or toe is disturbed, the Outback should get a four-wheel alignment. It protects your tyres and ensures the new bushes deliver the crisp, settled handling they’re meant to.