Parts for your 1999 Mazda Premacy-Steering bushes

1999 Mazda Premacy (CP) steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references including the Mazda Premacy CP-series workshop manual (steering section) and Mazda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue, the 1999 Mazda Premacy uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear that’s secured to the front subframe with rubber mounting bushes. Aftermarket catalogues from well-known suspension brands for the CP Premacy also list replacement steering rack mount bushes. So, steering bushes are absolutely relevant and fitted on this model.

On the Premacy, the steering bushes cushion the steering rack where it bolts to the subframe, isolating vibration and helping the rack stay positively located under braking and cornering. When these rubber isolators age, get oil-soaked, or crack, the rack can shift slightly. That’s when drivers start noticing steering kick-back, vague on-centre feel, or a clunk over bumps—none of which inspires confidence on Kiwi or Aussie roads.

As part of routine servicing, it pays to inspect the steering bushes whenever the vehicle is on a hoist:

• Check for visible splits, deformation, or rubber gone soft from oil contamination.
• Look for rack movement while an assistant lightly rocks the steering wheel side-to-side.
• Listen for knocks over small bumps and feel for wandering or tramlining on the highway.

If replacement’s on the cards, quality rubber or polyurethane (PU) bushes are both options. Rubber keeps the factory comfort. PU tightens steering response and resists oil, but can add a touch more road feel. Either way, proper installation is key: support the rack, replace bushes in pairs, seat them square in their carriers, and torque fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height. A post-job wheel alignment is smart, especially if the rack was loosened.

Good bushes won’t mask worn tie-rod ends or a tired column lower joint, so a holistic steering check is sensible. Fresh bushes typically restore a nice direct feel, reduce clunks, and help tyres wear more evenly. For most Premacys, an inspection every service and replacement somewhere in the 120–200,000 km window—earlier if oil leaks are present—is a fair rule of thumb.

• Common signs of worn steering bushes:
  • Clunk or thud from the front when turning or hitting small bumps
  • Vague steering, wander, or increased kick-back
  • Visible cracking or oil-softened rubber
• Service tips:
  • Fix any power steering or engine oil leaks to protect new bushes
  • Choose rubber for comfort, PU for sharper feel and durability
  • Get a wheel alignment after replacement

Popular questions about 1999 Mazda Premacy steering bushes

Do all 1999 Premacy models have steering rack bushes?
Yes. The CP-series Premacy uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the subframe with isolating bushes. This setup is shown in the Mazda workshop manual and EPC, and is supported by multiple aftermarket listings for rack-mount bush kits.

How do they know if their Premacy’s steering bushes need replacing?
Tell-tales include a clunk over sharp bumps, a slight knock when rocking the steering at a standstill, or a vague feel on-centre. If the bushes look cracked, crushed, or soaked in oil, they’re due. A technician can confirm by checking for rack movement while the wheel is gently oscillated.

Are polyurethane bushes a good idea on a daily-driven Premacy?
Polyurethane offers sharper steering feel and better resistance to oil and age. On a daily driver, they’re a solid option if a little extra road feedback is acceptable. For maximum comfort and OE-style compliance, fresh quality rubber bushes remain a safe bet.