Parts for your 2010 Subaru Exiga-Steering bushes

2010 Subaru Exiga steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering-bushes are absolutely relevant on a 2010 Subaru Exiga (YA series). The vehicle runs a rack-and-pinion steering setup mounted to the front crossmember using rubber “cushion” bushings. This is documented in the Subaru Exiga (YA) Service Manual under Steering/Rack and Pinion installation, and shown in the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue as cushion rubbers for the steering gearbox. Aftermarket catalogues for the YA platform and its close Subaru siblings also list replacement rack-mount bush kits, confirming fitment.

On the Exiga, these bushes locate the steering rack solidly on the subframe while soaking up vibration and road harshness. Good bushes keep the rack centred, so the steering stays precise and the wheel returns to centre cleanly. When they get tired, the rack can shift slightly under load, which feels like vague steering or a little kick back through the wheel on rough roads.

• Common signs they’re worn: a dull clunk over bumps, wandering or tramlining, inconsistent toe readings at alignment, or visible cracking/softening of the rubber (especially if soaked in power-steering fluid).
• Oil contamination matters: spilled or leaking PS fluid can swell and soften the rubber, accelerating wear.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering-bushes every 40,000–60,000 km or whenever the front end is apart. With the Exiga safely raised, a tech can lever the rack housing while watching for movement at the mounts. Any play, splits, or oil-soaked rubber is a cue to replace. The rack is supported, clamps are removed, new bushes are installed in the correct orientation, and all fasteners are torqued to the factory spec. A wheel alignment should follow, because even a small change at the rack can nudge toe settings.

Owners can choose OEM-style rubber bushes for factory feel and low NVH, or quality polyurethane options for a firmer, more direct response. Poly can sharpen steering on long family trips and weekend drives alike, though it may pass a touch more road texture into the cabin. While the rack is being checked, it’s sensible to assess inner/outer tie rods and the lower column joint too, those parts work as a team with the bushes to deliver a tidy, confidence-inspiring steer.

FAQs

Do all 2010 Exigas have steering-bushes?
Yes. The YA-series Exiga mounts its rack to the crossmember with cushion-style bushings. This is shown in the Subaru service documentation and parts catalogue for the model.

How long do the steering-bushes last on an Exiga?
There’s no fixed interval, but many last well past 100,000 km. Heat, age, rough roads, and oil contamination shorten their life. Inspect them at regular services and replace at the first sign of play, cracks, or softening.

Rubber or polyurethane for replacement?
Rubber keeps it quiet and comfy, just like factory. Polyurethane tightens steering feel and response but can add a smidge more road feel. Either is fine if it’s quality kit and installed to spec, followed by an alignment.