Parts for your 2009 Subaru Impreza-Steering bushes

2009 Subaru Impreza steering bushes

Steering bushes are indeed used on the 2009 Subaru Impreza. The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the GE/GH generation (2008–2011) shows a rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember via rubber mounting bushes, and the parts catalogues used by Subaru dealers list these cushions as service parts within the steering assembly. Aftermarket technical catalogues from Whiteline (e.g., rack-and-pinion mount bush kits for 08–14 Impreza) and SuperPro also confirm fitment, specifically calling out the 2009 Impreza. That means “steering-bushes” are relevant to this model.

On this Impreza, the steering rack bushes isolate the rack from the body, keeping noise and vibration down while holding the rack square and steady. Over time, the original rubber can soften, crack, or swell (especially if soaked in power steering fluid), which lets the rack shift slightly under load. The driver feels that as vague steering, a knock on turn-in, or a tendency to wander on the motorway. Fresh bushes bring the steering back to feeling tight and predictable—ideal for daily driving and weekend backroads.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack bushes every 20,000–30,000 km, or any time there’s a complaint about steering feel. Look for cracking, deformation, or fluid contamination around the rack mounts. If the Impreza has higher kilometres, has done lots of rough-road work, or shows free play when someone rocks the steering wheel while another person watches the rack, the bushes are likely due.

• Common symptoms: clunk over bumps, vague on-centre feel, steering shimmy, tramlining, or uneven tyre wear when other causes are ruled out.
• Replacement choices: OEM-style rubber for comfort and OE feel, or polyurethane for sharper response and longer life (with a small increase in NVH).
• Workshop tips: fix any power steering leaks first, oil-soaked rubber fails quickly. When fitting polyurethane, apply the supplied grease to prevent squeaks.
• Fasteners must be torqued to factory spec with the rack seated correctly. A post-repair wheel alignment is recommended—small changes at the rack can nudge toe and steering wheel centring.

While they’re in there, a technician will also check inner and outer tie rods, the lower steering coupler/universal joint, and front control arm bushes. Keeping the whole front end tight helps the 2009 Impreza track straight and steer cleanly, saving tyres and keeping WOF checks hassle-free.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Impreza steering bushes

How often should steering bushes be replaced on a 2009 Impreza?
There’s no fixed interval. In Australia and New Zealand conditions, an annual inspection or every 20,000–30,000 km is sensible. Replace them when there’s visible cracking, oil-soak, or if the rack can be seen or felt moving while the wheel is rocked. High-kilometre cars or those driven on rough roads typically need bushes sooner.

Are polyurethane bushes better than OEM rubber?
Polyurethane usually tightens up steering feel and lasts longer, especially under spirited driving, but it can pass a touch more vibration into the cabin. OEM-style rubber keeps the factory comfort and is perfectly fine for daily commuting. Either option is commonly used and workshop-friendly when installed correctly.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the rack bushes?
Yes—an alignment check is recommended. Even if toe hasn’t shifted much, centring the steering wheel and verifying toe and camber saves tyres and avoids a crooked wheel. It’s a quick add-on that finishes the job properly.