Parts for your 2001 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

2001 Ford Falcon steering-bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering-bushes are relevant and used on the 2001 Ford Falcon (AU Series II/III). The Ford workshop literature for AU models describes the rack-and-pinion steering gear mounting to the front crossmember via compliant rubber bushes, and includes procedures for inspecting and replacing them as part of steering gear removal and installation. Major aftermarket catalogues for AU Falcons (e.g., SuperPro, Nolathane, Whiteline) also list steering rack mounting bushes and column support bushes specifically for 1998–2002 Falcons, making it clear this model is bush-equipped from factory.

On a 2001 Falcon, the steering-bushes act like small, tough cushions that isolate the steering rack from the body. They keep the rack located under load, soak up vibration, and help deliver a steady on‑centre feel at the wheel. Over time — think age, Aussie heat, oil exposure, and the usual punishing city roads — the original rubber hardens, cracks, or deforms. Once that happens, the rack can shift slightly on the crossmember, and the steering can feel vague, tramline, or knock over bumps.

Common signs it’s time for new steering-bushes include:

• A dull clunk through the column when turning slowly or hitting small bumps
• Wandering on the motorway or a light shimmy mid‑corner
• Excess free play at the wheel despite tie rods and ball joints testing fine
• Visible cracking/ovaling of the rack bushes if inspected from underneath

For servicing, it’s smart to check the steering-bushes every 20,000–30,000 km or at each major service, especially if the car has clocked up 150,000 km or more. A quick test is to have someone gently rock the steering while watching the rack housing from underneath, any noticeable fore‑aft movement relative to the crossmember points to tired bushes.

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop or a confident DIYer with stands. Support the vehicle safely, mark the rack’s position, and remove the mounting hardware. Press out the old bushes and fit new ones — either OEM‑style rubber for factory comfort or quality polyurethane for a firmer, longer‑lasting feel. Refit and torque to the workshop manual spec with the vehicle at normal ride height. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards to make sure everything points straight and tyre wear stays even.

It’s also worth checking related components at the same time: outer tie‑rod ends, lower control arm rear bushes, and the intermediate shaft/universal joints. Replacing worn steering-bushes restores the Falcon’s tidy steering feel and gets rid of those annoying knocks from the front end.

Popular questions about 2001 Ford Falcon steering-bushes

How long do the original steering-bushes last on a 2001 Falcon?
In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, factory rubber bushes often make it 120,000–200,000 km. Heat, oil leaks, and rough roads shorten that window. If the car feels vague or knocks over bumps, it’s worth inspecting sooner rather than later.

Rubber or polyurethane — which steering-bushes are better for an AU Falcon?
Rubber keeps factory refinement and isolates vibration well. Polyurethane adds precision and durability and is popular for a more connected feel. For a daily driver chasing comfort, rubber is fine, for a sharper, longer‑lasting result, go quality poly from a reputable brand.

Do steering-bushes require a wheel alignment after replacement?
Yes, it’s good practice. Even though you’re not changing tie‑rod length, disturbing the rack mounts can nudge geometry. A post‑install alignment ensures straight‑ahead accuracy and even tyre wear.