Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Steering rack

2017 Subaru Impreza steering rack — what it does, how to look after it, and when to replace it

Yes — the 2017 Subaru Impreza is fitted with a rack-and-pinion steering rack with electric power assist (EPS). This is documented in Subaru’s 2017MY Impreza Service Manual (STIS: Steering/Electric Power Steering — Steering Gearbox) and reflected in the Subaru genuine parts catalogue for the GK/GT chassis, which lists complete steering gear assemblies and inner/outer tie-rod components for this model year. Independent workshop data providers also classify the 2017 Impreza as rack-and-pinion with EPS, not a recirculating-ball box.

The steering rack converts the driver’s rotation at the wheel into precise left–right movement of the front wheels via the tie-rods. On the 2017 Impreza, the electric assist motor and controller work with the rack to provide lighter effort at parking speeds and a more planted, linear feel at motorway pace. It also contributes to safety and stability control functions by communicating with wheel-speed and steering-angle sensors.

There’s no hydraulic fluid to change on this EPS rack, so “maintenance” is mostly inspection and keeping alignment in spec. At regular services, it’s smart to check:

• Rack boots (bellows) for tears or grease contamination
• Inner and outer tie-rod joints for play or binding
• Rack mounts/subframe hardware for movement
• Steering feel (on-centre, return-to-centre) and any EPS warning light
• Tyre wear patterns that hint at toe issues

Typical warning signs that the rack or tie-rods need attention include a clunk over bumps, wander on the highway, notchy or heavy steering, uneven tyre wear, or a steering warning lamp with stored EPS fault codes. Because the unit is sealed, water ingress past a torn boot can quickly damage the inner joint and rack bar — catching that early is a money-saver.

When replacement is due, use a quality new or reman rack suited to the Impreza’s VIN. The job generally involves supporting or slightly lowering the front subframe, disconnecting the column coupler, swapping the tie-rods to the same lengths, and torquing all fasteners to Subaru specs. Always disconnect the battery before unplugging EPS connectors, centre the steering wheel and angle sensor, clear EPS DTCs, and finish with a proper four-wheel alignment. Many workshops will also run the steering zero-point/calibration routine with a scan tool so assistance maps correctly. If only a tie-rod end is worn, it can usually be replaced on-car, but an alignment is still essential.

Does the 2017 Impreza have a steering rack or a steering box?

It has a rack-and-pinion steering rack with electric power assist. Subaru’s factory service information and parts listings for the GK/GT chassis confirm an EPS rack, not a hydraulic box.

Is there any power-steering fluid to change on this model?

No. The 2017 Impreza uses an electric power steering rack, so there’s no hydraulic fluid or pump. Routine care is inspection of boots and joints, checking for play, and keeping alignment on the money.

When should the steering rack be replaced?

Replace it if there’s internal play, persistent clunks after tie-rod replacement, water ingress or damage under a torn boot, binding/notchiness, or EPS faults traced to the rack. After replacement, carry out alignment and steering angle/EPS calibration.