Parts for your 2000 Toyota Altezza-Steering bushes

2000 Toyota Altezza steering-bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2000 Toyota Altezza (GXE10/SXE10, same platform as Lexus IS200) uses steering-bushes in the form of rubber mounting bushes for its rack-and-pinion steering gear. The Toyota Repair Manual for GXE10/SXE10 (Steering section) depicts the power steering rack secured to the crossmember with serviceable bushes, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists these rack mounting bushings as replaceable items. Their presence is further backed by major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro, Nolathane, Whiteline) that offer steering rack mount bush kits specifically for the Altezza/IS200, which wouldn’t exist if the vehicle didn’t use them.

On this Altezza, the steering-bushes cradle the steering rack on the front subframe. They isolate vibration, keep the rack correctly located under load, and help deliver the direct feel these cars are known for. Over time, factory rubber can compress, crack, or get oil-soaked from a power steering seep, letting the rack shift slightly. That’s when the steering starts feeling vague, knocks appear on sharp bumps, and the wheel may not self-centre as nicely.

Typical signs it’s time for new bushes include:

• A dull clunk or thud over potholes or when parking
• Steering that wanders or feels loose on-centre
• Visible cracking or mushy, oil-softened rubber on the rack mounts
• Uneven or accelerated front tyre wear alongside the above

Replacement is straightforward for a competent home mechanic: the rack is supported, old bushes and sleeves are removed, and new bushes are pressed or slipped in before the rack is re-fastened to spec. It’s smart to do it alongside a check of inner and outer tie rod ends and to sort any power steering fluid leaks first—fluid degrades rubber quickly. Expect about 1–2 hours in a workshop. While toe shouldn’t change if tie rods aren’t disturbed, most shops will recommend a quick alignment to make sure it’s bang-on.

Choosing materials comes down to use. Fresh OEM-style rubber keeps noise and harshness low and suits daily driving. Quality polyurethane bushes sharpen steering feel and resist deformation, which enthusiasts love, but they can add a touch more vibration through the wheel. For servicing in Australia or New Zealand, an inspection every 20,000–30,000 km is sensible, or sooner if the car is lowered, track-driven, or shows any of the symptoms above. Kept fresh, steering-bushes help the Altezza track arrow-straight and respond crisply, just as it should.

Popular questions about 2000 Toyota Altezza steering-bushes

Do worn steering-bushes affect safety or WOF/RWC?
Yes. Excessive rack movement can cause inconsistent steering response and longer stopping distances in evasive manoeuvres. In NZ (WOF) and AU (RWC), perished or loose steering mounts can be grounds for a fail, especially if there’s visible play or knocking.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for an Altezza?
Rubber keeps it quiet and comfy for daily duties. Polyurethane tightens up the steering and lasts longer under hard use, but may add a hint of vibration. For a street car, many go rubber, for spirited or track driving, poly is a popular upgrade.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing steering-bushes?
If tie rods aren’t disturbed, toe shouldn’t shift much, but a post-job alignment is good practice. It verifies the rack is centred and the toe is within spec, protecting tyre life and restoring precise on-centre feel.