Parts for your 2014 Subaru Impreza-Steering bushes

2014 Subaru Impreza steering bushes — are they actually a thing?

Short answer: steering bushes aren’t a separate, serviceable part on the 2014 Subaru Impreza (GP/GJ). According to Subaru’s Factory Service Manual for the 2012–2016 Impreza steering system, the electric power steering (EPS) rack is bolted directly to the front crossmember, and the parts catalogue (Subaru FAST/Global EPC) lists no standalone rack-mount bushings for this model. Subaru’s 2012MY Impreza technical training also outlines the EPS design focus on a rigidly mounted rack for accuracy and on-centre feel. If there’s excessive play at the rack mounts, the specified remedy is rack assembly replacement rather than swapping bushes.

Why no bushes? With EPS, Subaru engineered the rack to be solidly located so the motor’s assist and the car’s steering calibration feel precise and consistent. Compliance that older hydraulic systems sometimes relied on via rubber bushes is handled elsewhere: in the subframe isolation, control arm bushes and the column coupler. That means a “steering bushes” listing for this year’s Impreza isn’t relevant — there just isn’t a separate bush kit to fit.

If the steering feels loose or clunky on a 2014 Impreza, the smart checks during servicing are:

• Inner and outer tie-rod ends for play, and the rack boots for splits
• Steering column universal joint for binding or backlash
• Front lower control arm bushes and sway bar links/bushes for knocks and wander
• Rack-to-crossmember fasteners for security, and a post-repair wheel alignment

There’s no hydraulic fluid to service on the EPS setup, so focus shifts to mechanical joints and alignment. If measurable movement is found at the rack body itself, workshop guidance from the Subaru FSM is to replace the steering gear assembly rather than attempt bushing replacement.

Bottom line: for a 2014 Impreza, “steering bushes” aren’t a separate maintenance item. Keeping the tie-rods, column joint and front-end bushes in good nick — and aligning the car after any work — is the way to keep the steering tight and trustworthy on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2014 Subaru Impreza steering bushes

Do 2014 Subaru Imprezas have replaceable steering rack bushes?
No. The EPS rack is rigidly mounted and Subaru doesn’t list separate rack-mount bushes for this model. Factory literature points to replacing the rack assembly if there’s mount movement, rather than pressing in new bushes.

Can aftermarket polyurethane steering bushes be fitted to a 2014 Impreza?
You’ll see plenty of bush kits for older Imprezas and performance variants, but reputable listings for the 2014 GP/GJ rack mounts are scarce to none. Adapting non-specific bushes can affect rack position and EPS calibration, so it’s not recommended.

What steering items should be serviced instead?
Check inner/outer tie-rods, rack boots, the column U-joint, and front control arm and sway bar bushes. Any steering work should be followed by a wheel alignment to keep it tracking straight and protect tyre wear.