Parts for your 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer-Steering bushes

1999 Mitsubishi Lancer steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are absolutely fitted to the 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer (CE/CK series). The factory workshop manual (Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual – Group 37 Steering), the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, and common aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Nolathane, SuperPro, Whiteline) all list the steering rack and column mounting bushes for this model. So yes—steering bushes are relevant to the 1999 Lancer’s rack-and-pinion setup.

On this Lancer, the steering bushes secure the rack to the subframe and isolate vibration, keeping the rack aligned so the wheels hold steady toe and the steering wheel tracks straight. They also reduce harshness through the column, so the cabin doesn’t cop every bump. When the bushes age, swell from power steering fluid, or split, the rack can shift under load. That’s when the driver might feel vague on-centre response, clunks over sharp bumps, tramlining, or notice uneven tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering bushes every 20,000–30,000 km or whenever there’s free play. A quick visual check can pick up cracking or perishing, a gentle pry-bar test shows if the rack can move on its mounts. Oil contamination is a giveaway—if the rack has been weeping fluid, the rubber can soften and deform.

When replacement’s due, it’s a straightforward job for a workshop. The rack is supported, the mounting bolts are removed, and the old bushes are pressed out and new ones fitted, then everything’s torqued to factory spec. A wheel alignment should follow, because even tiny rack position changes can nudge toe. Owners can choose between OEM-style rubber (quiet, comfy) or polyurethane (sharper steering feel, slightly more NVH). Poly kits should be lubricated with the supplied grease to avoid squeaks.

If steering feel is still ordinary after fresh bushes, it’s worth checking related items: inner and outer tie rod ends, rack boots, sway bar link bushes, and the lower column joint. For a tidy job on the 1999 Lancer, many techs will bundle bushes with a fresh alignment and a close look for any power steering leaks that might prematurely age new rubber.

• Typical symptoms of worn bushes: clunking over bumps, steering wander, kickback, uneven tyre wear, vague on-centre feel.
• Recommended after replacement: wheel alignment and leak check.
• Choice of material: rubber for comfort, polyurethane for precision.

FAQs

Do 1999 Mitsubishi Lancers actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. The Mitsubishi service manual (Group 37 Steering), OEM parts listings (ASA EPC), and major bush manufacturers all specify rack-and-pinion mounting bushes for CE/CK Lancers, including 1999 models. Both manual and power-steered variants use them.

How can someone tell if the steering bushes are worn on a 1999 Lancer?
Look and listen for clunks over potholes, a loose or vague feel just off centre, steering kickback, or uneven front tyre wear. A mechanic can confirm by checking for rack movement on the subframe and inspecting the bushes for splits, flattening, or oil swelling.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes—what’s better for a 1999 Lancer?
Rubber is quiet and comfy, ideal for daily driving. Polyurethane sharpens steering response and holds alignment better under load, great for spirited use, but may pass a touch more vibration into the cabin. Either is fine if installed correctly and torqued to spec, with a wheel alignment afterwards.