Parts for your 2000 Mazda Premacy-Steering bushes

2000 Mazda Premacy steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on the Mazda Premacy CP (1999–2005) workshop manual and Mazda EPC parts listings for the power steering gear, the 2000 Mazda Premacy uses a rack‑and‑pinion steering assembly mounted to the front subframe with rubber steering rack bushes. Aftermarket catalogues from well‑known suppliers (e.g., SuperPro, Whiteline, Febest) also list steering rack mounting bush kits for this model, which confirms steering-bushes are fitted and serviceable on the 2000 Premacy.

On this wagon, the steering bushes clamp the rack to the crossmember, isolating vibration while keeping the rack precisely located. Good bushes mean crisp on‑centre feel, consistent toe geometry, and less kickback through the wheel. When they age, harden or swell (often from power steering fluid leaks), the rack can shift slightly under load, leading to vague steering and knocks over bumps.

Telltale signs the Premacy’s steering-bushes are due:

• A thud or clunk through the floor on sharp bumps or when parking
• Wandering on the motorway and a loose on‑centre feel
• Steering wheel shimmy on corrugations and slow return to centre
• Visible cracking, ovalled bushes, or rack movement when an assistant rocks the wheel

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth inspecting the rack mounts every 40,000–60,000 km, or sooner if there’s a history of fluid leaks. With the car safely on a hoist, have someone gently turn the steering side‑to‑side while watching the rack. Any noticeable fore‑aft or vertical shift at the mounts points to tired bushes. Also check the inner/outer tie rods, rack boots, and the lower column joint at the same time.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent technician: support the rack, remove the brackets, swap the bushes, align the locating features correctly, and torque all fasteners to factory spec. If power steering fluid has been leaking, fix that first—oil-soaked rubber will fail early. An alignment check is a smart move after the job, as the rack can sit slightly differently once the slop is gone.

Choosing bushes: OE‑style rubber keeps things quiet and comfy. Quality polyurethane tightens steering feel and durability, handy for rough Kiwi and Aussie roads, though it can add a touch more road feel in the cabin. Whichever way, fresh bushes restore confidence and make the Premacy steer the way it should.

Popular questions about 2000 Mazda Premacy steering-bushes

Do all 2000 Mazda Premacy models have replaceable steering rack bushes?

Yes. The first‑gen Premacy (CP) uses a rack‑and‑pinion mounted to the subframe with serviceable rubber bushes held by brackets. This applies to both power‑assisted variants commonly sold in Australia and New Zealand. If someone’s swapped in a reconditioned rack, it will still use the same style of mounting bushes.

How long do the steering bushes last, and what shortens their life?

Many last well past 120,000 km, but harsh roads, heat, and exposure to power steering fluid can age them sooner. Fluid leaks are the main killer—oil swells and softens rubber. If the car does lots of city kerb parking or gravel driving, expect earlier wear. Poly options can extend service life if you’re chasing longevity and sharper feel.

Will worn steering bushes fail a WOF or roadworthy?

They can. Excessive rack movement, perished bush material, or metal‑to‑metal contact may trigger a fail. Even if it scrapes through, any clunking or vague steering is a safety and tyre‑wear concern, so most inspectors will recommend fixing it promptly and checking the wheel alignment afterward.