Parts for your 2015 Subaru Exiga-Steering bushes

2015 Subaru Exiga steering-bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Based on the Subaru Exiga (YA platform) service manual Steering System section and the Subaru parts catalogue for the Steering Gear & Linkage assembly, the 2015 Exiga uses a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering (EPS) mounted to the front crossmember via rubber steering rack bushes. Aftermarket catalogues from well-known brands that list direct-fit rack-mount bush kits for the Exiga/Impreza-derived platform back this up. So, steering-bushes are relevant and fitted to the 2015 Subaru Exiga.

In this model, the steering-bushes cradle the rack on the subframe. Their main job is to hold the rack solidly in place while soaking up noise and vibration, so the wheel feels tidy on-centre and the car tracks straight. When these bushes wear, the rack can nudge back and forth under load. That’s when drivers notice vague steering, a light clunk over sharp bumps, tramlining on coarse roads, or the car wandering on the motorway even after a fresh alignment.

During servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering-bushes every 40,000–60,000 km, or whenever there’s front-end noise or steering play. On the hoist, a tech will check for perished rubber, splits, and any tell-tale rack movement while a helper rocks the wheel. Because the 2015 Exiga runs EPS, there’s no power-steering fluid to worry about—so the bushes and tie rod ends become the usual wear points to watch.

Replacement is straightforward: support the rack, remove the rack-mount bolts, swap the bushes, then torque everything to factory spec. A wheel alignment usually isn’t necessary if only the rack mounts are touched, but it’s good practice to confirm steering wheel centre afterwards. Job time is typically 1–2 hours. Parts cost varies with material—OEM-style rubber keeps the ride comfy and quiet, polyurethane firm-ups the steering feel and response at the cost of a smidge more vibration, popular for towing or spirited driving.

If there’s a heavy knock, obvious rack shift, or the Exiga feels nervous in crosswinds, don’t leave it—worn bushes can accelerate tie rod and tyre wear. It’s also worth checking adjacent components at the same time: inner/outer tie rod ends and the front lower control arm bushes. Keeping this lot in good nick restores that planted, confidence-inspiring Subaru steering feel Aussie and Kiwi drivers expect.

• Typical signs: steering knock, vague on-centre feel, wandering, shimmy under throttle/brake, visible rubber cracking
• Service tip: inspect every service, consider polyurethane for sharper response
• After replacement: verify torque to spec and confirm steering wheel is centred

FAQs

Does the 2015 Subaru Exiga actually have steering-bushes?
Yes. The Exiga’s electric rack-and-pinion is mounted to the front crossmember with dedicated rubber rack bushes. This is shown in the Subaru Exiga service manual Steering System diagrams and the Subaru parts catalogue listings for the steering gear. Aftermarket suppliers also offer direct-fit rack-mount bush kits for this model.

How often should the steering-bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Have them inspected at regular services and ahead of a WOF/rego check. Many last well past 100,000–150,000 km, but heat, age, rough roads, and oil contamination can shorten life. Replace when there’s play, clunking, cracking, or when steering feel goes vague.

Should they upgrade to polyurethane bushes?
Poly bushes tighten up steering response and resist deformation longer than rubber—great for towing, winding roads, or if sharper feedback is the goal. Expect a touch more noise and vibration compared with OEM rubber. Quality brands and correct installation keep everything road-legal and durable for Aussie and Kiwi conditions.