Parts for your 2014 Subaru Xv-Steering bushes

2014 Subaru XV steering bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Based on Subaru’s factory Service Manual for the GP-series Impreza/XV (2012–2016) and the Subaru parts catalogue (Group 34: Steering – Gearbox & Mounting), the 2014 Subaru XV uses rubber “cushion” bushes to mount the electric rack-and-pinion steering gear to the front crossmember. Aftermarket catalogues from well-known suspension brands also list dedicated steering rack bush kits for the XV/Impreza platform. Taken together, those technical sources confirm steering bushes are fitted and very much relevant on the 2014 Subaru XV.

On this model, the steering bushes isolate vibration while positively locating the steering rack so the wheel stays where it’s pointed. Because the XV runs electric power steering (no hydraulic hoses or fluid), bush integrity is even more important for crisp on-centre feel. When the bushes age, harden or deform, the rack can shift slightly under load, showing up as vague steering, a clunk over bumps, tramlining, or uneven tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the bushes every 40,000–60,000 km or whenever the front end is apart. Look for cracks, splitting, ovalled holes, or oil saturation, and have someone gently rock the steering wheel while checking for rack movement on the crossmember. The XV’s rack is accessed from underneath, replacement is straightforward for a workshop: support the rack, remove the mounting clamps/bolts, swap the bushes (observing any locating tabs or flats), then refit and torque to factory spec. An alignment is recommended afterwards to keep the XV tracking straight.

Owners can choose OEM-style rubber for factory comfort, or polyurethane for a firmer, more responsive feel. Poly bushes can add a hint of extra road feel and noise, which some drivers enjoy and others don’t—either way, quality parts make the biggest difference. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants on rubber, use a silicone or the supplied assembly grease. Because it’s EPS, there’s no power steering fluid to leak, but engine oil leaks can still attack rubber over time, so fixing any seepage helps the new bushes last.

If there’s knock over speed humps, a steering shimmy, or the wheel won’t self-centre nicely, get the bushes checked—after confirming tyres, wheel bearings and tie-rod ends are all good. Most shops will sort the job in around an hour or two, and it’s a cost-effective way to restore that confident Subaru steering feel.

• Key signs: clunks, vague steering, tramlining, uneven tyre wear
• Service tip: inspect at 40–60k intervals or when front-end work is done
• After replacement: perform a wheel alignment and road test

Popular questions about 2014 Subaru XV steering bushes

Do 2014 Subaru XVs actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. Subaru’s GP-series Service Manual and the OEM parts catalogue identify rubber “cushion” bushes that mount the electric steering rack to the front crossmember. Several aftermarket suppliers also list direct-fit bush kits for the 2012–2016 XV/Impreza platform, confirming they’re a serviceable component.

How long do they last, and what are the tell-tale symptoms?
Lifespan varies with road conditions, tyres and driving style, but many sets go well past 100,000 km before noticeable play develops. Symptoms include a dull clunk on bumps, vague or wandering steering, more kickback through the wheel, and sometimes feathered or uneven tyre wear. If those crop up, a bush inspection is worth doing alongside checks of tie-rod ends and control arm bushes.

Are polyurethane steering bushes worth it for Aussie and Kiwi roads?
For drivers chasing a tighter, more direct feel, quality polyurethane bushes can sharpen response and reduce rack movement. On coarser-chip rural roads they may transmit a touch more vibration than rubber. Daily drivers who prioritise refinement often stick with OEM-style rubber, while enthusiasts or those who tow or load up the XV may prefer the added precision of poly. It comes down to preference and the rest of the suspension setup.