Parts for your 2008 Subaru Exiga-Steering bushes

2008 Subaru Exiga steering-bushes — purpose, wear signs and service tips

Yes, the 2008 Subaru Exiga (YA series) uses steering-bushes. The factory rack-and-pinion is mounted to the front subframe via rubber cushion bushes that locate the rack while isolating noise and vibration. This is documented in the Subaru Exiga (YA) Service Manual steering section and illustrated in the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue under Steering Gear & Linkage. Aftermarket catalogues from brands like Whiteline and SuperPro also list replacement steering rack bush kits for the YA platform, further confirming fitment.

On this Exiga, the steering-bushes sit between the rack housing and the mounting brackets. Their job is to hold the rack steady so the wheels respond precisely to input, while soaking up harshness from the road. When they’re in good nick, drivers get a consistent on-centre feel, tidy tracking at motorway speeds and less kickback over rough surfaces.

As the kilometres rack up, heat, age, and exposure to power steering fluid can harden or soften the rubber. Once the bushes start to go, the rack can shift slightly under load, which shows up as vague steering, a clunk over bumps, tramlining, or a steering wheel that won’t stay nicely centred. Oil-soaked or cracked bushes are a dead giveaway during inspection.

Servicing is straightforward. During regular maintenance (every 40,000–60,000 km, or if there’s a complaint), it’s smart to:

• Inspect bush condition for cracks, collapse, or oil contamination
• Check for power steering fluid leaks and fix them before fitting fresh bushes
• Verify rack security by checking bracket fasteners for correct torque (per the Subaru service manual)

When replacement time comes, owners can choose OEM-style rubber for factory comfort or polyurethane for a firmer, more direct feel that keen drivers appreciate. Fitment involves supporting the rack, removing the clamp brackets, swapping the bushes, and re-torquing with the wheels at straight-ahead so the bushes aren’t preloaded. A wheel alignment check is wise afterwards, especially if any other steering or suspension work was done. Reuse hardware only if it’s clean and undamaged, replace corroded or stretched fasteners.

Looked after properly, quality steering-bushes will keep the Exiga’s steering tidy and confidence-inspiring on New Zealand back roads and Australian highways alike.

Popular questions about 2008 Subaru Exiga steering-bushes

Do all 2008 Exiga models have steering-bushes?
They do. The YA Exiga uses a hydraulic rack-and-pinion mounted with rubber cushion bushes. This is shown in the Subaru Exiga (YA) Service Manual and Subaru FAST EPC. Aftermarket bush kits listed for the YA platform back this up as well.

How long do the bushes last, and what are the signs they’re worn?
Service life varies with driving and conditions, but many last well past 100,000 km. Signs include vague steering, knocks over bumps, tramlining, a steering wheel that won’t stay centred, and visible rubber cracking or oil soaking. Any power steering fluid leak accelerates wear.

Are polyurethane bushes a good upgrade for the Exiga?
For drivers chasing a crisper feel, quality polyurethane rack bushes can sharpen response and reduce rack movement. Expect a touch more feedback through the wheel compared with OEM rubber. Always install to the workshop manual and re-check alignment afterwards.