Parts for your 2002 Mazda 6-Steering bushes

2002 Mazda 6 steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are absolutely used on the 2002 Mazda 6 (GG/GY). Technical references including the Mazda 6 (GG/GY) Workshop Manual (Steering Gear and Linkage section) and Mazda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue list rubber steering gear mounting bushes for the rack-and-pinion assembly. Aftermarket catalogues for the GG/GY chassis also offer replacement “steering rack mount bushes,” confirming they’re a service item on this model.

On this Mazda 6, the steering bushes are the rubber cushions that mount the steering rack to the front subframe. Their job is twofold: they isolate vibration and road noise so the cabin stays quiet, and they keep the rack located precisely so the wheel alignment and steering feel stay sharp. When the bushes harden, split, or get oil-soaked, the rack can shift under load, which dulls steering response and can add clunks or knocks over bumps.

Owners often notice a few tell-tale signs when these bushes are tired:

• A light clunk or thud through the floor or column when turning or driving over potholes
• Steering that feels vague on-centre or wanders at highway speeds
• Uneven or accelerated front tyre wear despite a recent alignment
• Visible cracks, squashed rubber, or oil contamination around the rack mounts

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering rack mounts every 40,000–60,000 km, or any time the vehicle is on a hoist for suspension work. Fix any power steering fluid or engine oil leaks first, oil attack is a fast way to ruin fresh bushes. Replacement options include OE-style rubber for factory refinement or polyurethane for a firmer, more direct feel. Poly can sharpen response but may transmit a touch more road texture.

Replacement is a straightforward job for a workshop: support the rack, remove the mounting brackets, swap the bushes, and torque everything to Mazda’s spec. Depending on tools and corrosion, the rack may be lowered slightly to create working room. Because the rack’s location is restored by the new bushes, a post-repair wheel alignment check is a good idea. If there’s any play in tie rods or column joints found during the bush inspection, sort those at the same time for a tight, predictable steer.

Done right, fresh bushes make the 2002 Mazda 6 feel crisp again, cut down on knocks, and protect tyres — exactly what’s wanted for Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2002 Mazda 6 steering bushes

Do all 2002 Mazda 6 models have steering rack bushes?
Yes. The GG/GY-series Mazda 6 uses a hydraulic rack-and-pinion mounted to the subframe on rubber bushes. This is documented in the factory Workshop Manual under Steering Gear and Linkage and reflected in OE and aftermarket parts listings.

How can someone tell if their steering bushes are worn?
Common signs include a dull clunk over sharp bumps, a loose or wandering feel at motorway speeds, and front tyres wearing unevenly. A visual check on a hoist often shows cracked, perished, or oil-soaked rubber at the rack mounts, which confirms replacement is due.

Rubber or polyurethane — which is better for NZ and Australian roads?
OE-style rubber keeps cabin refinement high and is ideal for daily use. Polyurethane reduces rack movement for a more direct steer and better longevity, especially in hotter climates, but it can transmit a bit more road feel. Many owners pick rubber for comfort or poly if they value sharper response.