Parts for your 2000 Toyota Avensis-Steering bushes

2000 Toyota Avensis steering bushes

Steering bushes are absolutely used on the 2000 Toyota Avensis (T22). Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists the steering rack mounting “cushions” (Toyota terminology) for this model, and both the Toyota Repair Manual (steering section) and the Haynes Avensis manual (1998–2008) describe the rack-and-pinion assembly mounted to the subframe via rubber bushes. So “steering bushes” are relevant here, specifically the steering rack mounting bushes that isolate the rack from the body.

On the Avensis, these bushes keep the steering rack precisely located while soaking up vibration and road shock. They help the car track straight, reduce NVH, and prevent the rack shifting under load. When they age, harden or tear, the driver may notice a dull knock over bumps, a slight clonk when turning at low speed, vague on-centre feel, or the rack visibly moving as the steering wheel is rocked. Oil contamination from a weeping power steering system can accelerate the rubber’s deterioration.

Servicing-wise, the bushes are worth a look any time the car is on a hoist for front-end work. A quick check involves an assistant gently rocking the steering wheel while a tech watches the rack body, any lateral movement relative to the subframe suggests tired bushes. Cracks, flattening, or softened rubber are reasons to replace. Toyota specifies re-use of original style rubber cushions, but quality polyurethane upgrades exist if a sharper steering feel is wanted, they can add a touch more road feel and firmness.

• Common symptoms: clunks over speed humps, steering that feels a bit floaty, or alignment that doesn’t stay consistent.
• Good practice: inspect every 40,000–60,000 km, or whenever tyres are replaced or alignment is adjusted.
• Avoid soaking bushes with oils or solvents, if fitting polyurethane, use the supplied silicone grease only.

Replacement is a straightforward workshop job: support the rack, remove the mounting bolts, swap the bushes, and torque the hardware to the factory spec shown in the Toyota Repair Manual. Because the rack’s position relative to the subframe can change slightly, a post-repair wheel alignment check is sensible, even though tie rod lengths aren’t disturbed. Expect around 1–2 hours’ labour depending on access and corrosion. For a daily-driven Avensis, fresh OEM-style rubber keeps the ride civil, for those chasing crisper turn-in, a reputable polyurethane kit suits New Zealand and Australian roads, provided NVH trade-offs are accepted.

Popular questions

Does the 2000 Avensis actually have steering bushes?
Yes. Toyota’s EPC lists the steering rack mounting “cushion, steering gear” for the T22 Avensis, and both Toyota and Haynes manuals show the rack secured to the subframe with rubber bushes.

How long do the steering rack bushes last on a 2000 Avensis?
In local conditions they often last 120,000–200,000 km, but heat, age and oil exposure can shorten that. If clunks, vague steering or visible rack movement appear, it’s time to replace.

Will replacing the bushes require a wheel alignment?
It’s wise to check alignment afterwards. While tie rods aren’t removed, the rack can sit fractionally differently in fresh bushes, which can nudge toe settings.