Parts for your 2006 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Suspension bushes

2006 Toyota Vitz/Yaris suspension bushes: what they do and when to replace

Suspension bushes are absolutely fitted to the 2006 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP90). This is confirmed by the Toyota factory repair manual for XP90 models (front suspension and rear axle sections) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, which both list front lower control arm bushes, stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes, rear axle beam bushes and strut top mounts with bonded rubber. Aftermarket catalogues for this model also specify replacement bush kits, further verifying fitment.

On this Yaris, the bushes are the quiet achievers that keep the ride comfy and the steering tidy. Pressed into arms and brackets, they isolate vibration, allow controlled movement of the suspension and hold alignment steady under brakes and cornering. When they’re fresh, the car tracks straight, the steering feels precise and tyre wear stays even.

Common bush locations on a 2006 Vitz/Yaris include:

• Front lower control arm bushes (front and rear positions)
• Front stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes and link bushes
• Rear torsion-beam axle bushes
• Front strut top mounts (rubber-bonded)

Typical signs they’re tired are clunks over bumps, vague steering, wandering on the motorway, knocking at low speed, shudder or instability under braking and uneven or saw-tooth tyre wear. Perished, cracked or oil-soaked rubber is a giveaway on inspection. These issues are common reasons for a WOF or Rego check fail in NZ and state roadworthy inspections in Australia.

For servicing, a visual check every 20,000 km or annually is a smart move, and sooner if the car cops rough roads or heavy loads. Replace bushes in axle sets (left and right) to keep handling balanced. Any work on control arm or rear beam bushes should be followed by a wheel alignment to protect tyres and restore proper geometry.

Fitment tips that save headaches:

• Torque all bush bolts at normal ride height, not with the suspension hanging, to avoid pre-loading and early failure.
• Use new fasteners where the manual specifies one-time-use (stretch) bolts.
• Some shops replace the complete front lower control arm assembly (with bushes and ball joint) as it can be cost-effective and faster than pressing individual bushes.
• OEM-style rubber keeps noise levels low, quality polyurethane can sharpen response but may add a bit of NVH. Check local certification rules before modifying.

Keep oil and solvent off rubber bushes, and don’t lubricate factory rubber D-bushes unless specified, if upgrading to polyurethane, use the supplied silicone grease only. With the right parts and procedures, a Yaris can clock heaps more kilometres with tight, confidence-inspiring handling.

Popular questions

How long do suspension bushes last on a 2006 Toyota Vitz/Yaris?
In Aussie and Kiwi conditions they often go 100,000–200,000 km, but life varies with road quality, climate and driving style. City cars that hit speed humps daily or vehicles that carry loads may need bushes sooner. Annual inspections will catch wear before it chews out tyres or affects braking stability.

What are the tell-tale signs the rear beam bushes are worn?
Look for a thump over speed bumps, a “rear-steer” feeling mid-corner and scalloped or saw-tooth wear on the rear tyres. You might also notice the car needing small steering corrections in crosswinds. A workshop can confirm with a pry-bar check or by measuring rear alignment.

Is polyurethane worth it for a daily-driven Yaris?
Poly bushes can tighten steering and last longer, which suits enthusiastic drivers. For a pure daily, OEM-style rubber keeps the cabin quieter and rides softer. If choosing poly, buy reputable brands, grease them with the right lube and ensure they’re legal for road use where you live.