Parts for your 2003 Honda Accord-Steering bushes

2003 Honda Accord steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, steering bushes are relevant to the 2003 Honda Accord. The factory service literature for the 2003–2007 Accord (Honda Service Manual, Steering Gearbox Removal/Installation) specifies rubber “mounting cushions/bushes” that locate the steering rack on the front subframe. Honda’s electronic parts catalogues also list these as steering gearbox mounting cushions. That means this model absolutely uses steering bushes, even though the column uses universal joints rather than a separate rubber “rag joint”.

On this Accord, the steering rack bushes isolate vibration and road shock, keep the rack centred, and stop it sliding on the subframe under load. When they perish or soften (often from age or power steering fluid exposure), owners will notice vague steering, a clunk on turn-in or over bumps, and sometimes the rack visibly shifting if someone rocks the steering wheel while another person watches the rack.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack mounts whenever the front end is up for suspension work or at around 100,000–150,000 kilometres. Look for cracks, flattening, or oil-swelling. If there’s been a power steering leak, expect the rubber to degrade faster.

• Replacement notes: On most 2003 Accords, the rack bushes are serviced with the rack lowered or removed. That typically means supporting the engine/subframe, disconnecting the intermediate shaft, lines, and tie-rods, then swapping the bushes or bush/bracket assemblies. Follow Honda torque specs and use new self-locking fasteners where specified.
• After the job: Centre the steering, ensure the intermediate shaft pinch bolt is correctly aligned, and get a wheel alignment. Subframe position matters for alignment on these cars.
• Bush choice: OEM rubber keeps NVH low and suits daily driving. Polyurethane options can sharpen steering feel but may add a bit of vibration, great for those who prefer a sportier response.

Because the bushes sit below the power steering lines, keeping leaks in check will massively extend their life. During services, a quick wipe-down and a look for perishing or movement is cheap insurance for a tidy, confident steering feel.

Popular questions about 2003 Honda Accord steering bushes

How long do the steering rack bushes usually last?
In typical Aussie and Kiwi driving, many last well past 120,000 km, but age, heat, and fluid leaks are the big killers. If the car sees rough roads or the rack has weeped fluid, expect earlier replacement. A periodic check during suspension or alignment work is the best approach.

Can the bushes be replaced without removing the steering rack?
Sometimes the rack can be lowered enough with the subframe supported to change the bushes in situ, but access is tight. Many workshops prefer to remove or at least partially drop the rack for a clean, accurate fit and to avoid damaging new bushes.

Should they go OEM rubber or polyurethane?
For quiet, factory-like manners, OEM rubber is the go-to. If they want crisper steering and don’t mind a touch more vibration through the wheel, quality polyurethane is a smart upgrade. Either way, proper installation and a post-job alignment matter more than the material choice.