Parts for your 1999 Toyota Hiace-Steering bushes

1999 Toyota Hiace steering bushes — what they do and when to replace

Based on technical references — the Toyota Hiace H100-series Repair Manual (Chassis & Body, mid-1990s to early 2000s editions) and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for RZH/KZH/LH variants — the 1999 Hiace runs a recirculating-ball steering box with a pitman arm, centre/relay rod and an idler arm. That setup doesn’t use rack-mount bushes because there’s no rack-and-pinion. It does, however, use steering bushes in the idler arm assembly and support bushes in the steering column. So, steering bushes are relevant to the 1999 Toyota Hiace.

On this Hiace, the steering bushes help keep the idler arm and column aligned and snug, soaking up vibration and limiting free play. When they wear, the van can start feeling vague on-centre, tramlining more than usual, and knocking over bumps. Left too long, play in the idler arm bush can speed up tyre wear and make the van wander — not what anyone wants on a Kiwi motorway or an Aussie country road.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect steering bushes every 20,000–30,000 km or annually, especially if the van tows, carries weight, or spends time on corrugated roads. Look for cracked or perished rubber, ovalled inner sleeves, or any lateral movement in the idler arm when someone rocks the steering wheel. A clunk you can feel through the floor or see in the relay rod as the wheel is turned is another giveaway.

Replacement is straightforward with the right tools: support the vehicle safely, disconnect the relay rod, remove the idler arm from its bracket and press out the old bush. Many owners upgrade to polyurethane bushes for sharper response and better longevity, OE-style rubber keeps things quiet and comfy. Either way, use quality parts, lubricate as specified, and torque fasteners to the workshop-manual specs. After any steering bush or idler arm work, a wheel alignment is recommended to keep tyre wear even and the Hiace tracking straight.

If the steering still feels loose after new bushes, check the rest of the linkage — tie-rod ends, relay rod joints and the rag joint/coupling — plus box free play per the manual. Fresh bushes, sound joints, and a good alignment bring these vans back to that solid, confident feel they’re known for.

• Inspect bushes regularly for cracks and play
• Consider polyurethane for durability, rubber for comfort
• Always follow torque specs and get an alignment after

Popular question: Where are the steering bushes on a 1999 Hiace?

They’re primarily in the idler arm assembly on the passenger side of the chassis (RHD markets), plus support bushes in the steering column. Unlike later rack-and-pinion vans, there are no rack-mount bushes on this model.

Popular question: What are the symptoms of worn steering bushes?

Common signs include a loose or wandering feel on-centre, clunks over bumps, vibration through the column, and uneven tyre wear. You might also see the relay rod shift side-to-side as the wheel is rocked with the engine off.

Popular question: Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing steering bushes?

Yes. Any work on the idler arm or steering linkages can alter geometry slightly. A proper alignment helps the Hiace track straight and protects your tyres.