Parts for your 2004 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

2004 Ford Falcon steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are absolutely used on the 2004 Ford Falcon (BA series). Technical references including the Ford BA Falcon Workshop Manual (Steering — Rack and Pinion), Ford Australia’s parts catalogue (Microcat), and major aftermarket catalogues from Nolathane and SuperPro all identify rubber isolator bushes that mount the steering rack to the Falcon’s front subframe. So yes — “steering bushes” are relevant on this model.

On a BA Falcon, the steering rack sits on the K-frame and is located by a pair of bushes. Their job is to hold the rack precisely in place while soaking up vibration and road shock. Good bushes keep the steering feel tight and consistent, reduce NVH in the cabin, and help the car track straight under brakes and over bumps. When they’re worn, the rack can shift slightly under load, which feels like a clunk, kickback through the wheel, vague on-centre feel, or a pull that comes and goes. Left long enough, it can contribute to uneven tyre wear and extra stress on tie rod ends.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the Falcon’s steering bushes every 40,000–60,000 km, or sooner if the car runs wider tyres or a lowered suspension. Look for cracked, perished, or ovalised rubber, oil swelling from power-steering leaks, and any visible rack movement when a helper rocks the steering wheel with the car safely supported.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent technician: support the rack, undo the mounting bolts, press out the old bushes, and install new ones with the correct orientation. Rubber OE-style bushes keep it quiet and comfy, polyurethane options from reputable brands sharpen steering response and resist oil and heat better, though they may add a hint more feel. Use the supplied grease on poly bushes, and always torque the rack mounts to the workshop spec. If Ford specifies new bolts, fit them. Avoid straining hydraulic lines while the rack is loose, and tidy up any power-steering leaks before installing fresh bushes.

After bush replacement, a wheel alignment is recommended. While toe may not shift much, it’s cheap insurance for straight-line stability and tyre life. A quick road test over small bumps and under firm braking should feel tighter steering and fewer knocks through the column — the hallmark of a BA Falcon with healthy rack bushes.

• Typical signs it’s time: clunks over potholes, vague steering, tramlining, and visible rack shudder.
• Good practice: inspect at each service, align after replacement, and fix any fluid leaks early.

Popular questions

Does a 2004 BA Falcon actually have steering bushes?

Yes. The BA uses rack-and-pinion steering mounted to the front subframe with rubber isolator bushes. This is detailed in the BA Workshop Manual and mirrored in Ford’s parts listings and well-known aftermarket catalogues for BA/BF Falcon steering rack mount bush kits.

Rubber or polyurethane — which is better for a BA Falcon?

Rubber is quiet, compliant, and closest to factory feel. Polyurethane is tougher, resists oil and heat, and gives a sharper, more direct steering response. For a comfy daily, rubber is great, for a sportier feel or lowered cars, quality poly bushes are a popular upgrade.

Do steering bushes affect wheel alignment?

They can. Worn bushes allow the rack to move, which can nudge toe settings under load. After replacing bushes, a wheel alignment is recommended to keep the Falcon tracking straight and protect tyre life.