Parts for your 2000 Holden Commodore-Steering bushes

2000 Holden Commodore steering bushes — what they do, why they matter, and when to replace them

Yes, the 2000 Holden Commodore (VT Series II and early VX) does use steering bushes. The factory rack-and-pinion steering gear is mounted to the front crossmember with isolator bushes. This is documented in the Holden VT/VX Service Manual (Steering section) and supported by aftermarket catalogues from Nolathane and SuperPro, which list steering rack mounting bush kits specifically for VT–VX Commodore models. So if someone’s chasing “steering-bushes” for this car, they’re looking for a genuine, serviceable part.

On this Commodore, the steering bushes secure the rack solidly to the K-frame while soaking up vibration and road harshness. When they’re in good nick, the wheel tracks straight, on-centre feel is tidy, and there’s less kickback through the column. As they age, the rubber can crack, squash, or turn to mush if contaminated by leaking power-steering fluid. That’s when owners start noticing a vague steering feel, clunks over bumps, tramlining, or a slight wander on the motorway.

• Common signs they’re worn: steering shudder or thud over potholes, delayed response off-centre, uneven or rapid tyre wear, or visible cracking/softening of the bushes.
• Quick checks: engine off, rock the steering wheel left-right and watch the rack, if the housing shifts on the crossmember, the bushes are likely tired.

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop and a fair DIY for the experienced home mechanic with stands, a torque wrench, and alignment access. Rubber replacements keep factory comfort, quality polyurethane (from reputable brands) sharpens response and resists oil, great for higher-kilometre commuters or cars running bigger wheels. Always torque the mounts at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading the bushes, and book a wheel alignment afterwards. While there, inspect the tie rod ends, rack boots, and power-steering hoses for leaks that can prematurely kill fresh bushes.

1. Inspect the steering rack bushes at regular services (every 20,000–30,000 km or annually).
2. Prioritise replacement if there’s movement of the rack on the K-frame or persistent clunks.
3. If fluid leaks are present, fix them first so new bushes last.

Technical references: Holden VT/VX Series Service Manual (Steering – rack-and-pinion mounting with isolator bushes), Nolathane and SuperPro product catalogues for VT–VX rack-mount bush kits, confirming fitment and material options.

Are steering rack bushes the same as control arm bushes on a 2000 Commodore?

No. Control arm bushes locate the lower control arms, while steering rack bushes mount the rack to the crossmember. They affect similar symptoms (clunks, vague feel) but are different parts in different locations. A proper inspection will confirm which set is causing the grief — often both are tired on higher-kilometre cars.

Rubber or polyurethane — which steering bushes should a Commodore owner pick?

Rubber keeps it OE-quiet and comfy. Polyurethane typically adds steering precision and durability, and it resists oil better, which is handy if the rack has ever wept fluid. For daily street use, either is fine, for sharper feel and longevity, go poly from a trusted brand.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing the steering rack bushes?

Yes, book an alignment. Even though you’re not changing arms or tie rods, disturbing the rack can nudge toe settings. An alignment also verifies everything is centred and the wheel tracks straight.