Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Steering rack

2022 Subaru Impreza Steering Rack — What It Is and How To Look After It

Technical sources confirm the 2022 Subaru Impreza is fitted with a rack‑and‑pinion steering rack with electric power assist (EPS). This is specified in the Subaru Service Manual (STIS) for the 2017–2022 Impreza GK/GU platform under Steering: Electric Power Steering (rack‑and‑pinion type), in the 2022 Impreza Owner’s Manual specifications (steering: rack‑and‑pinion, electric assist), and in the Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue for 2022 Impreza listing the “Gear Assy – Steering (Rack &, Pinion)” under Steering Gear &, Linkage. So yes—steering rack is relevant and used on the 2022 Subaru Impreza.

The steering rack on a 2022 Impreza translates steering wheel input into precise movement at the front wheels. Being an electric power steering setup, there’s no hydraulic fluid to top up—assist is provided by an electric motor and control module integrated with the rack. That means less routine fluid maintenance, quicker response, and better fuel economy. What still matters is keeping the rack and its linkages in good nick so the car tracks straight, steers smoothly, and looks after its tyres.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to:

• Inspect inner and outer tie‑rod ends for play or split boots, and check the rack bellows for tears or leaks of grease.
• Listen for clunks or feel for notchiness at low speeds, any free play at the wheel should be investigated promptly.
• Check wheel alignment and tyre wear patterns—feathering or rapid inside/outside wear can point to rack or tie‑rod issues.
• Scan for EPS fault codes if the steering warning light appears, and verify the steering angle sensor is calibrated after alignments or suspension work.

When a rack needs replacing, quality and setup are everything. Use the correct Impreza GK/GU‑spec rack, new locking nuts on the tie‑rods, and torque all fasteners to Subaru specs. Centre the rack, match the tie‑rod lengths side‑to‑side, and ensure the intermediate shaft pinch bolt is correctly positioned. After installation, a four‑wheel alignment is essential, and the EPS/steering angle neutral position should be initialised with a scan tool. Keep battery voltage stable during any EPS learning procedures to avoid control module faults.

Done right, the Impreza’s steering feels light, direct, and consistent. With periodic inspections and prompt attention to wear items, most Aussie and Kiwi drivers will see many years and kilometres of trouble‑free steering from their 2022 Impreza.

• Does the 2022 Impreza use hydraulic or electric power steering?
  It uses electric power steering on a rack‑and‑pinion rack. There’s no power steering fluid service—assist comes from an electric motor and ECU on the rack assembly.

• What are common signs the steering rack or tie‑rods need attention?
  Free play at the wheel, clunks over bumps, off‑centre steering, uneven tyre wear, or an EPS warning light. Any of these are a cue to book an inspection and alignment.

• Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing the rack?
  Absolutely. A full four‑wheel alignment is required, and the steering angle/EPS neutral position should be reset with a scan tool to keep driver assists happy.