Parts for your 2007 Subaru Impreza-Steering bushes

2007 Subaru Impreza Steering Bushes — Purpose, Service Tips, and When to Replace

Yes — steering bushes are fitted to the 2007 Subaru Impreza, and they’re absolutely relevant. Technical references that confirm this include the Subaru Impreza MY2007 Service Manual (Steering/Rack-and-Pinion sections, which show the rack mounted to the front crossmember via rubber “cushion” bushes), the Subaru electronic parts catalogue (listing steering gearbox mounting bushes for GD/GG Impreza), and major aftermarket catalogues from Whiteline and SuperPro that offer replacement/improved rack-mount bush kits for 2001–2007 Impreza models.

On a 2007 Impreza, the steering rack is secured to the subframe with rubber bushes that locate the rack while isolating noise, vibration and harshness. When those bushes age, soften, crack or get soaked in power steering fluid, the rack can shift under load. That’s when the steering starts to feel vague on centre, the wheel may shimmy mid-corner, and you can cop clunks over bumps or tramlining. Keeping the bushes healthy helps the Impreza track straight, maintain consistent toe under braking, and deliver that tidy Subaru steering feel.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering rack bushes every 20,000–40,000 km, or any time there’s play in the wheel, uneven front tyre wear, or fresh ATF/power steering fluid leaks nearby. Look for perishing, cracking, or swelling. A quick pry-bar check on the rack body (with the car safely supported) will show excess movement if the bushes are tired.

Replacement is a straightforward job for a competent tech: safely support the rack, loosen the bracket bolts, swap bushes one side at a time, align the flats/locator tabs as per the service manual, and torque the brackets to the factory spec. Be gentle with the hydraulic lines so they’re not stressed. After fitment, a wheel alignment is recommended because firmer, fresh bushes can subtly change toe and steering centring.

Choosing bushes comes down to use and preference:

• OEM-style rubber: factory comfort and isolation, ideal for daily use.
• Polyurethane (e.g., Whiteline/SuperPro): sharper response and better on-centre feel with a touch more NVH — great for spirited road use.

Handy extras at the same time: check inner/outer tie rods, the steering shaft universal joint, and front control arm rear bushes. Re-torque the rack brackets after a few hundred kilometres, and keep an eye out for any fresh fluid leaks that could shorten bush life.

Popular questions

What are the signs the steering rack bushes are worn on a 2007 Impreza?
Common giveaways include a vague or wandering feel on centre, clunks over bumps, the wheel kicking back on rough roads, and uneven front tyre wear. If the rack can be moved with a pry bar, or the bushes look cracked, perished, or oil-soaked, it’s time to replace them.

Do polyurethane steering bushes make the car too harsh?
On a 2007 Impreza, quality polyurethane rack bushes typically add only a slight increase in road feel and noise but noticeably improve steering response. For most daily drivers they’re perfectly livable, if maximum comfort is the goal, stick with OEM-style rubber.

Is an alignment needed after replacing steering rack bushes?
It’s strongly recommended. Fresh or firmer bushes can change the rack position just enough to alter toe and steering centring. A post-repair alignment ensures straight tracking and even tyre wear.