Parts for your 1999 Nissan Navara-Steering bushes

1999 Nissan Navara (D22) steering-bushes — what’s actually used

Steering-bushes are relevant on the 1999 Nissan Navara D22, but not as “rack bushes.” This model runs a recirculating-ball steering box with a centre link, pitman arm and an idler arm, not a rack-and-pinion. Per the Nissan Navara D22 Factory Service Manual (Steering, ST section, 1997–2004), the idler arm supports the centre link and contains serviceable bushings. Independent workshop guides (e.g., Haynes/Gregory’s covering D22) and major aftermarket catalogues for Australia and New Zealand list idler arm bush kits for the D22, confirming real-world fitment. So, while there are no rack-mount bushes to worry about, the idler arm bushes are absolutely part of the Navara’s steering hardware.

On a 1999 Navara, the steering-bushes in question live in the idler arm assembly. Their job is to keep the centre link running true while soaking up vibration and minor impacts from the road. Good bushes mean the steering feels tight and tracks straight, worn bushes add slop, wander and that annoying clunk over corrugations or driveway entries.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the idler arm for play. A quick at-home check works: with the front wheels on the ground, have a mate rock the steering wheel side to side while watching the idler arm bracket. Any obvious movement in the arm relative to its mount, or a knock you can feel through the housing, points to tired bushes. A more precise check uses a pry bar to assess movement at the arm and a dial or visual reference — the factory manual specifies acceptable movement and outlines replacement if it’s out of spec.

Typical symptoms that nudge owners toward new bushes include vague on-centre feel, tramlining, a clack on bumps and uneven tyre wear. Bush life varies with tyres, loads and how much rough stuff the ute sees, so a quick look every service (10,000–15,000 km) is worthwhile — more often if it tows, hits tracks or runs heavy wheels.

Replacement is straightforward: either fit a quality bush kit to the existing idler arm or install a complete new idler arm assembly. After refit, torque fasteners to the factory spec and book a wheel alignment — even small changes in steering link geometry can show up at the wheel. Rubber bushes keep OE comfort and isolation, polyurethane upgrades sharpen steering response and last well in Aussie/Kiwi conditions, but can transmit a touch more road feel. If the arm has a grease nipple, use a quality chassis grease at service intervals to extend bush life.

It’s also worth a quick once-over of related steering bits while you’re there — tie rod ends, pitman arm and the centre link — because wear often shows up in more than one spot.

Does a 1999 Navara have steering rack bushes?

No. The D22 uses a steering box, not a rack-and-pinion, so there are no rack-mount bushes. The relevant steering-bushes are in the idler arm that supports the centre link. Replacing worn idler arm bushes (or the whole idler arm) usually fixes free play and clunks many owners mistake for a “rack issue.”

How often should the idler arm bushes be checked or replaced?

Give them a look every service, or sooner if the ute does plenty of gravel, towing or carries a canopy and gear. There isn’t a fixed kilometre change-out, many last well past 100,000 km, but harsh use can shorten that. If there’s noticeable play, noise, wander or uneven tyre wear, plan a bush kit or idler arm replacement and follow up with a wheel alignment.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes — which is better for a D22?

Rubber keeps it close to factory feel with great NVH control. Polyurethane tightens the steering and resists deformation and oil better, ideal for rough roads and heavier setups. For a daily-driven Navara that also sees the odd trip up the beach or down a track, many owners pick polyurethane for longevity and a firmer, more precise feel, knowing it may pass through a bit more feedback.