Parts for your 2000 Toyota Hiace-Steering bushes

2000 Toyota Hiace Steering Bushes

Yes, the 2000 Toyota Hiace does use steering bushes. On the H100-series Hiace of this era (widely sold in AU/NZ), the steering is a recirculating-ball box with a centre/relay rod and an idler arm. The idler arm runs on serviceable bushes, and there’s also a lower steering column bush. This is documented in Toyota’s Hiace workshop manual steering section and reflected in the Toyota parts catalogue, as well as AU/NZ aftermarket catalogues from brands like Nolathane and SuperPro that list idler arm bush kits for 1989–2004 Hiace models.

What do these bushes do? They keep the steering linkage aligned, absorb vibration, and control free play. The idler arm bushes support the relay rod opposite the pitman arm, so when they wear, the van can wander, feel vague on-centre, and clunk over bumps. The column bush keeps the steering shaft running true and reduces rattle through the column.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the Hiace’s steering bushes every 10,000–15,000 km (or at each service). Look for cracked, perished, or ovalised rubber, and check for looseness with a pry bar while a mate gently rocks the steering wheel. If the idler arm has a grease nipple, give it a shot of good chassis grease. Any play at the idler arm or noticeable movement at the lower column indicates replacement time.

When replacing, a quality bush kit makes a huge difference to steering feel. OEM-style rubber keeps it comfy, polyurethane options sharpen response and usually last longer, though they can pass a bit more road feel into the cabin. Replace the pair in the idler arm as a set, torque everything to Toyota spec, and tighten pivot bolts with the vehicle at normal ride height. It’s wise to book a wheel alignment straight after, because even small changes in the linkage can alter toe and steering wheel centring. Re-check fasteners after a few hundred kilometres, especially if the van works hard or sees rough roads.

While you’re there, cast an eye over tie rod ends, the relay rod, and the pitman arm. Sorting any play across the whole linkage will keep the Hiace tracking straight, help it pass WOF/rego checks, and save the front tyres from scrubbing out.

• Typical symptoms of worn bushes: vague steering, tramlining/wander, clunks over bumps, uneven tyre wear, WOF/rego advisory for steering free play.

Popular questions about 2000 Toyota Hiace steering bushes

What steering bushes are on a 2000 Hiace?

The 2000 Hiace (H100) typically has idler arm bushes in the steering linkage and a lower steering column bush. Unlike later Hiace models with rack-and-pinion, this setup uses a steering box and relay rod, so the idler arm bushes are the main wear items affecting free play and on-centre feel.

How often should steering bushes be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval—replace on condition. In normal use, inspection at every service is enough, many see wear anywhere from 80,000–150,000 km, sooner if the van carries loads, tows, or lives on corrugated roads. If you can feel play, see cracking, or get a WOF/rego note for steering free play, it’s time.

Can they be DIY’d at home?

Yes, if you’re comfortable with stands, a puller/press, and torqueing to spec. Some owners swap the whole idler arm assembly to avoid pressing bushes. Either way, book an alignment afterwards. If bolts are seized or there’s excessive overall play, a workshop can diagnose the rest of the linkage and the steering box.