Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Suspension bushes

2022 Subaru Impreza suspension bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Suspension bushes absolutely are used on the 2022 Subaru Impreza. Technical references including Subaru’s workshop/service manuals for the Subaru Global Platform (covering 2017–2023 Impreza) and OEM parts catalogues list multiple bushes throughout the chassis: front lower control arm bushes (the rear is typically a fluid-filled/hydro bush), front and rear stabiliser (sway bar) D-bushes, rear lateral link and trailing arm bushes, and rear subframe mounts. These components are standard on the MacPherson strut front and double-wishbone rear layouts used on the 2022 Impreza.

On this model, bushes are the quiet achievers that isolate vibration, keep alignment steady, and let the arms articulate without metal-on-metal contact. The larger hydro bush in the front lower control arm helps tame harshness over corrugations and sharp edges, while the sway bar bushes keep body roll in check without adding noise. At the rear, lateral link and trailing arm bushes control toe and camber changes as the suspension moves, which is crucial for stability and even tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect bushes every 20,000–30,000 km or annually—more often if the car sees gravel, coastal air, or frequent towing. Look for cracks, splits, oil swelling (especially if a shock or engine leak has wetted the rubber), torn sleeves, or excessive arm movement when pried. Any clunking over speed humps, wandering at highway speeds, or inner/outer shoulder tyre wear can point to tired bushes.

When replacement is due, a few pro tips help keep an Impreza feeling factory-fresh:

• Replace in axle pairs to maintain balance and braking stability.
• Torque all pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading the new bushes.
• Budget for a four-wheel alignment afterwards—bush compliance affects toe and camber.
• Consider genuine-style rubber or hydro bushes for comfort, quality polyurethane can sharpen response but may add a bit of NVH.
• Use new locknuts where specified in Subaru procedures, and a proper press/sleeve set to avoid tearing the bush.

Kept in good nick, the Impreza’s bushes deliver that tidy, connected feel Aussie and Kiwi drivers expect, protect tyres, and help the car pass WOF/roadworthy checks without drama.

How long do the bushes last, and what are the signs they’re worn?

On a 2022 Impreza driven on typical Australian or New Zealand roads, many bushes see 80,000–150,000 km, but life varies with climate and road surface. Tell-tales include clunks over potholes, steering shimmy, wandering on the motorway, brake shudder not caused by discs, and uneven tyre wear. Visual cracks or fluid seepage from a hydro bush mean it’s time.

Can just the bushes be replaced, or does the whole control arm need changing?

Both approaches are valid. Subaru parts catalogues list individual bushes and complete arms. Pressing in a new bush can be cost-effective and keeps OE geometry if done correctly. Swapping the whole arm is faster and ensures fresh ball joints on the front, but costs more. Either way, an alignment is recommended.

Are polyurethane bushes a good idea for daily driving?

Quality poly bushes can sharpen steering and reduce deflection, which some owners love. For daily driving on coarse-chip or gravel, OE-style rubber/hydro bushes usually ride quieter with less vibration. A mixed approach—rubber in comfort-critical spots and poly in sway bar D-bushes—can be a tidy compromise.