Parts for your 2006 Toyota Ractis-Suspension bushes

2006 Toyota Ractis suspension bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2006 Toyota Ractis absolutely uses suspension bushes (suspensionbushes). Technical references such as the Toyota Repair Manual for the NCP100 series and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) show rubber bushings fitted to the front lower control arms, front and rear stabiliser (sway) bars, and the rear torsion-beam axle. Aftermarket catalogues used in Australia and New Zealand also list direct-fit replacement bushes for the Ractis, confirming they’re standard kit on this model.

On this car, suspensionbushes are the quiet achievers. They isolate noise and vibration, let the suspension move freely, and keep alignment steady so the Ractis tracks straight and looks after its tyres. Up front, the MacPherson strut setup relies on two lower control arm bushes and sway-bar D-bushes/link bushes. Down the back, the torsion-beam axle is located by large rubber bushes that are vital for stable cornering and braking.

When the rubber ages, cracks, or softens, drivers may notice clunks over bumps, steering wander, shimmy under braking, or uneven tyre wear. If the steering wheel won’t stay straight after an alignment, worn bushes are often the culprit.

As part of regular servicing on a 2006 Toyota Ractis, it’s smart to inspect suspensionbushes every 20,000–30,000 km or at each WOF/roadworthy. A torch and a careful pry-bar check will usually reveal split rubber, separated sleeves, or excessive play. Any oil contamination from leaking shocks or engine fluid accelerates bush failure and should be addressed.

• Front: lower control arm front and rear bushes, sway-bar D-bushes and link bushes
• Rear: torsion-beam axle bushes, sway-bar (if fitted) D-bushes and link bushes

Replacement tips for this model:

• Replace bushes in axle pairs (both sides) to keep handling even.
• Torque suspension bolts at normal ride height so the rubber sits neutral.
• Get a proper wheel alignment afterwards, the Ractis responds well to correct toe and caster.
• OE-style rubber keeps comfort and NVH stock, polyurethane (Aussie and Kiwi suppliers have plenty) sharpens steering and lasts longer, with a touch more road feel.
• Some bushes are pressed in, a shop press or dedicated tools make the job cleaner and safer.

Look after the suspensionbushes and the 2006 Toyota Ractis rewards with tidy turn-in, quieter cruising, and even tyre wear — exactly what’s wanted for everyday commuting or city runabout duties.

Popular questions about 2006 Toyota Ractis suspension bushes

1) What are the signs the Ractis suspension bushes need replacing?

Common giveaways are clunks over speed bumps, vague steering, tramlining, and uneven tyre wear. Under braking, the wheel may shimmy, and the car can wander on the motorway. Visual checks often show cracked or torn rubber, shiny metal where a sleeve has moved, or perished sway-bar D-bushes.

If alignment won’t hold or there’s knocking when shifting between drive and reverse, the front control arm rear bushes or rear axle beam bushes are worth a close look.

2) How often should suspension bushes be replaced on a 2006 Toyota Ractis?

There’s no fixed interval, as life depends on kilometres, climate, and road conditions. Many last 100,000–160,000 km, but city driving with lots of speed bumps or hot climates can shorten that. Inspect at each service and plan replacement when cracks, excessive play, or noise show up.

After fitting new bushes, a fresh alignment brings the most benefit in steering feel and tyre life.

3) Are polyurethane bushes a good idea for Australian and New Zealand roads?

Poly bushes can sharpen steering, improve longevity, and resist oil, making them a solid option. On coarse-chip rural roads, expect a touch more road feel than OE rubber, but many owners find the trade-off worthwhile. Greaseable sway-bar bushes are a nice fit-and-forget upgrade.

For maximum comfort, stick with high-quality rubber, for crisper response and durability, choose reputable poly options and have them installed and torqued correctly.