Parts for your 2002 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

2002 Ford Falcon steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are absolutely relevant on a 2002 Ford Falcon. Technical references including the Ford Falcon Workshop Manual for AU Series III and BA (2002–2005) detail inspection and replacement of the steering rack mounting bushes, and major aftermarket catalogues in Australia and New Zealand (e.g., Ford Genuine Parts, SuperPro, Nolathane) list dedicated rack-mount and column support bushes for these models. That confirms the 2002 Falcon (late AU and early BA) runs a rack-and-pinion system located by serviceable bushes rather than solid mounts.

On this Falcon, the steering bushes primarily secure the rack to the front crossmember and isolate vibration. They keep the rack precisely located so the toe angle stays consistent, which helps the car track straight and feel tight on turn-in. The bushes also soak up noise and harshness, giving that familiar Falcon blend of road feel without too much kickback through the wheel.

When the bushes age, flatten or get soaked in power-steering fluid, the rack can shift under load. Common tell-tales include a dull clunk when changing direction, vague or wandering steering at highway speeds, and accelerated or uneven tyre wear. On rough roads or speed humps, a knock that seems to come from low in the firewall area often points to tired rack mounts. Some cars may also show a little steering wheel nibble over bumps as the rack moves on its mounts.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack bushes every 20,000–40,000 km. Look for perishing, cracking, elongation of the bush sleeves, and any oil contamination from hose or pump seepage. If fluid has been leaking, fix that first—rubber will keep degrading if it’s bathed in ATF.

Replacement is straightforward workshop fare: support the front, keep the steering centred, loosen the rack fasteners, swap the bushes, then torque to the factory spec from the workshop manual. A wheel alignment afterwards is recommended to make sure the toe is bang-on. Owners chasing a sharper feel often choose polyurethane bushes, they usually deliver crisper response but can pass a touch more road texture into the cabin. For a comfy, OE-like drive, quality rubber is still a great pick.

• Key benefits: steadier toe control, crisper steering, reduced clunks
• Watch-outs: fluid leaks accelerate wear, alignment check after fitment
• Options: OE rubber for comfort, polyurethane for sharper response

Does a 2002 Ford Falcon actually have steering bushes?

Yes. Both the late AU Series III and the early BA Falcons (2002) use a rack-and-pinion setup mounted to the crossmember via serviceable bushes. Ford’s factory workshop manuals describe inspection and replacement, and major Aussie/Kiwi aftermarket suppliers list direct-fit rack-mount bushes and column support bushes for these cars.

How often should steering bushes be replaced on a 2002 Falcon?

There’s no fixed kilometre limit because driving conditions vary. A good rule is to inspect them every service or two (around 20,000–40,000 km). Many last well past 100,000 km, but heat, age, and power-steering fluid exposure can speed up wear. Replace at the first signs of cracking, deformation, oil soak, or when the steering develops a clunk or wander.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for the BA/AU Falcon rack—what’s better?

For daily comfort and factory refinement, quality rubber works brilliantly. If the Falcon sees spirited driving or towing and the owner wants sharper response, polyurethane tightens things up and resists oil better. Expect a touch more road feel with poly, which many drivers consider a worthwhile trade-off.