Parts for your 1999 Honda Accord-Steering bushes

1999 Honda Accord steering bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Yes, steering bushes are used on the 1999 Honda Accord. The factory service literature for the 1998–2002 Accord (Helm Inc. service manual) specifies steering rack mounting bushes/insulators, and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue lists them for the CG/CJ chassis. Aftermarket catalogues from brands supplying rack-mount kits for 1998–2002 Accords also confirm their fitment. So, on this Accord, “steering bushes” generally refers to the rubber bushes that cradle the rack-and-pinion on the front subframe, plus related column/rack guide bushes within the steering system.

On this model, the steering rack bushes keep the rack securely located while soaking up vibration and road harshness. When they age, harden or split—often sped up by oil contamination from power steering leaks—the rack can shift slightly under load. That shows up as a dull clunk on bumps, vague on‑centre feel, wandering at highway speeds, or uneven tyre wear. It can also make the steering wheel feel a bit “late” to respond, especially over corrugations or when changing lanes.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to have the bushes inspected every 40,000–60,000 km or whenever there’s steering play. A quick check involves:

• Looking for cracked, perished or oil-soaked rubber at the rack mounts
• Having a helper rock the steering while watching for rack movement on the subframe
• Listening for knocks over speed humps or driveway entries

If replacement’s due, most owners choose between OEM-style rubber (quiet, factory feel) and polyurethane (firmer response, a touch more NVH). On the 1999 Accord the job typically involves supporting the subframe, loosening the rack brackets, swapping the bushes and re-torquing all hardware to the service manual specs. If the column pinch bolt is disturbed, it must be aligned and torqued correctly. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, as fresh bushes can slightly alter the rack’s resting position.

Good habits help them last: fix any power steering fluid leaks promptly (Honda‑spec PSF only), avoid kerb strikes and deep potholes, and keep front-end geometry in spec. If the rack is leaking or inner tie rods are loose, it’s efficient to address those at the same time, as access overlaps. Done right, new bushes restore that tidy, confidence‑inspiring steering the Accord is known for.

Does a 1999 Honda Accord have steering bushes?

Yes. The 1999 Accord (CG/CJ) uses steering rack mounting bushes that secure the rack to the subframe and isolate vibration. They’re identified in Honda service manuals and parts catalogues as steering gear mounting bushes/insulators.

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

Often 100,000–200,000 km, depending on driving and fluid leaks. Telltales include knocking over bumps, a loose or vague steering feel, mid‑corner shimmy, wandering on the motorway, and visible cracking or oil‑soaked rubber at the rack mounts.

Can just the bushes be replaced, or is a full rack needed?

In most cases, the bushes can be replaced on their own. A full rack is only needed if there’s fluid leakage, severe internal wear or excessive play in the inner tie rods. After bush replacement, a wheel alignment is recommended.