Parts for your 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

2002 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes — what they do and when to sort them

Yes, steering bushes are used on the 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP series). Mitsubishi’s own NM/NP Workshop Manual (Group 37A – Power Steering) specifies a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember via rubber “steering gear mounting insulators” (bushes). The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue also lists these insulators/bushes for NM/NP models, and major aftermarket catalogues carry replacement rack-mount bush kits for 1999–2006 Pajero. So “steering bushes” are absolutely relevant on this model.

On this Pajero, the steering rack bushes isolate vibration, keep the rack correctly located, and help the steering feel tight on- and off-road. Over time the original rubber hardens, compresses or cracks from age, oil exposure and corrugations, which can introduce play.

Typical signs they’re due:

• Clunk or knock through the wheel on turn-in or over potholes
• Wandering or vague on-centre feel, needing constant correction
• Steering wheel shimmy on rough surfaces
• Visible cracking or deformation of the rack mounts

As part of regular servicing, a quick check under the bonnet and from underneath goes a long way. With the front safely supported, have a helper nudge the wheel side-to-side while you watch the rack mounts. Excess movement at the bush locations points to wear. Also look for power steering fluid leaks that can soften rubber.

Replacement choices are typically OEM-style rubber (quiet, compliant) or polyurethane (firmer feel, sharper response, good for towing or outback touring). Either way, use quality parts and new hardware where specified. Refit the rack square to the crossmember, tighten mounts at normal ride height, and torque to the workshop spec. An alignment afterwards is a smart move, especially if you’ve chased a wander.

Many owners pair fresh rack bushes with an inspection of tie-rod ends, lower control arm bushes and front wheel alignment to restore the Pajero’s nicely weighted factory steering. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, it’s common to see these bushes tired around the 150,000–200,000 km mark, sooner if the vehicle lives on corrugations or runs heavy front accessories.

Service tip: keep oils off the bushes, check them at each major service, and don’t ignore early knocks or play — it only accelerates wear on other steering and suspension bits.

Popular questions about 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes

Does a 2002 Pajero actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. The NM/NP generation runs a power-assisted rack-and-pinion setup with rubber rack mounting insulators (bushes). This is documented in the Mitsubishi NM/NP Workshop Manual (Group 37A) and reflected in the Mitsubishi ASA parts listings.

What are the main symptoms of worn steering bushes on a Pajero?
Expect a light knock over bumps, vague on-centre feel, or a shimmy on rough roads. If you can see the rack shifting at its mounts while a helper rocks the steering, the bushes are likely cooked.

Rubber or polyurethane — which bushes should a Pajero owner choose?
Rubber keeps it quiet and comfy, close to factory feel. Polyurethane sharpens response and resists deformation under load, handy for towing and long dirt-road trips. If noise and harshness are a priority, go rubber, if steering precision matters more, go poly.