Parts for your 2006 Subaru Tribeca-Steering bushes

2006 Subaru Tribeca steering-bushes: what’s actually fitted and what’s not

For the 2006 Subaru Tribeca (B9), “steering-bushes” as a stand-alone, serviceable part aren’t a thing. According to the Subaru Factory Service Manual for 2006MY Tribeca (Steering System section) and Subaru’s Electronic Parts Catalogue/FAST for the Tribeca platform, the steering rack is mounted to the front subframe with integral rubber isolators that are not listed as separate service items. Subaru services the steering gear as a complete assembly. That’s why you won’t find an OEM steering-bush kit for this model, and most aftermarket bush kits that suit Impreza/Legacy/Forester don’t list the Tribeca.

Why did Subaru do it this way? The Tribeca’s rack-and-pinion unit uses captive isolators to hit the brand’s NVH targets and packaging needs around the six-cylinder drivetrain and front subframe. Because those isolators are built into the rack housing and brackets, Subaru doesn’t offer them as individual bushes. If those internal cushions wear or the rack moves under load, the factory repair path is to replace the steering gear assembly and then carry out a wheel alignment.

If a Tribeca owner reports vague steering, kickback or a clunk over driveways, it’s worth checking the usual suspects first, because they’re both common and serviceable:

• Front lower control arm bushes (rear “hydraulic” bush in particular)
• Inner and outer tie-rod ends, and front ball joints
• Front stabiliser (sway bar) link pins and D-bushes
• Tyre condition/pressures and wheel alignment

If the rack itself is shifting on the subframe when the steering is loaded, that points to deterioration within those integral isolators. Some specialist workshops may offer custom pressing or sleeving solutions, but that’s not supported by Subaru literature. For most owners, the practical fix is a quality replacement or remanufactured steering gear, fresh fluid to the spec Subaru calls for, and an alignment. During routine servicing, a quick inspection under the vehicle for rack movement, leaks, and play at the tie rods will usually catch issues early without chasing non-existent “steering-bushes” kits.

• Can the Tribeca’s steering rack bushes be replaced separately?
  Not as an OEM part. Subaru doesn’t list separate steering-bushes for the 2006 Tribeca, the rack’s isolators are integral to the assembly. Some specialists may attempt custom solutions, but the factory procedure is to replace the steering gear if movement or internal wear is confirmed.
• What should be checked first if steering feels loose on a 2006 Tribeca?
  Start with front lower control arm bushes, inner/outer tie-rod ends, ball joints, and the sway bar D-bushes and links, then verify tyre pressures and alignment. These items commonly cause looseness and are all serviceable on this model.
• Is there any scheduled maintenance for steering-bushes on the Tribeca?
  No specific interval, because there are no separate steering-bushes listed. Include a visual and hands-on check of the steering rack, tie rods, and front-end bushes at each service, and keep the power steering fluid in good condition using the specification Subaru calls for.