Parts for your 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

2003 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes: what they do and when to replace them

For the 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP series), steering bushes are absolutely relevant. The Mitsubishi factory service manual for the NM/NP generation (Group 37 – Steering) specifies a rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember with rubber insulator bushes, and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue lists these mounting bushes as service items. Reputable aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro and Nolathane) also offer steering rack mount bush kits specifically for 2000–2006 Pajero models, further confirming fitment.

On this Pajero, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the subframe. Their job is to locate the rack securely while isolating vibration and road shock from the cabin. When they’re in good nick, the wheel feels direct and predictable, and the rack stays aligned relative to the front suspension geometry. As they age—especially with exposure to power steering fluid, heat, and outback corrugations—the rubber can soften, split, or compress, letting the rack shift under load and dulling steering feel.

Owners often notice a clunk over sharp bumps, a vague on-centre feel, shudder through the column on rough roads, or a tendency to tramline. Under the bonnet, a quick inspection may show cracked or oil-soaked bushes, and a lever on the rack housing can reveal excess movement relative to the crossmember. Because worn bushes can accelerate inner/outer tie-rod wear and upset toe, they’re worth checking at regular services—say every 20,000 km—or sooner if the vehicle tows, sees corrugated gravel, or runs larger tyres.

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop: support the rack, remove the mounting hardware, swap the bushes, and torque fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, as fresh bushes can slightly alter rack position. When choosing parts, OEM-style rubber keeps the factory compliance and NVH balance, while quality polyurethane can firm up steering feel and last longer in harsh conditions, either way, pairing bushes (doing all rack mounts together) is sensible. It’s also smart to inspect the lower steering column joint and both tie rods at the same time, and clean any power steering fluid leaks that could prematurely degrade new rubber. There’s no fixed replacement interval—condition and driving environment rule—but many Pajeros see bush refresh somewhere between 100,000 and 200,000 km.

• Watch-fors: clunks, wandering, uneven tyre wear, steering shudder, visible bush cracking or oil soak
• Service tips: replace in sets, torque at ride height, align afterwards, check for PS fluid leaks
• Parts choice: OEM rubber for comfort, polyurethane for sharper feel and durability

Popular questions about 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes

How do you tell if the Pajero’s steering rack bushes are worn?
Common clues include a dull or wandering steering feel, a knock over potholes or speed humps, and slight rack movement when a lever is applied to the housing. Cracked, perished, or oil-soaked bushes are visual giveaways. If symptoms are present, have a technician check the rack mounts, tie rods, and column joint together.

Rubber vs polyurethane bushes—what suits a 2003 Pajero best?
Rubber keeps the factory refinement and is ideal for daily driving and touring. Polyurethane typically gives a firmer, more precise feel and better resistance to heat and oil—handy for towing, off-road, or heavier tyres. Quality brand fitment and correct torqueing matter more than the material alone.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing steering bushes?
Yes, it’s recommended. Fresh bushes can slightly alter the steering rack’s position, which affects toe. An alignment ensures the Pajero tracks straight and protects tyre life after the job.