Parts for your 2004 Ford Transit-Steering bushes

2004 Ford Transit steering-bushes

Yes, the 2004 Ford Transit uses steering bushes. On the MK6 Transit (2000–2006), the power steering rack is isolated from the front crossmember with rubber mounting bushes. This is documented in the Ford Workshop Manual for Transit (steering gear/rack mounting insulators) and covered in the Haynes Ford Transit Diesel 2000–2006 manual, both of which note inspection or replacement of the rack mounting bushes during steering gear service. OEM parts catalogues for this generation also list the steering gear mounting bushes as separate service items.

On this Transit, the steering bushes are there to keep the rack solidly located while soaking up vibration and noise. Over time, the rubber can harden, crack, or deform. When that happens, the rack can shift slightly under load, which the driver feels as vague steering, a knock over bumps, or a tug when turning. Left too long, worn bushes can contribute to uneven tyre wear and place extra stress on other steering components.

For servicing, it’s smart to have the bushes inspected at each major service or at least every 20,000–30,000 kilometres, especially on vans that carry weight or see rough roads. Tell-tale signs include:

• Clunks or thuds felt through the steering when hitting potholes or speed humps
• Steering that feels loose on-centre or wanders at highway speed
• Visible cracking, splitting, or excessive movement at the rack mounts

Replacement is straightforward for a competent technician: support the rack, remove the mounting hardware, press out the old bushes, and fit new OEM-equivalent or polyurethane bushes. Always torque the fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading the mounts. Because the rack position can marginally change when bushes are renewed, a wheel alignment afterwards is a good idea to keep tyre wear even and the van tracking straight.

Choosing bushes comes down to use. Genuine-style rubber keeps NVH low and suits daily delivery work. Quality polyurethane options can add precision and durability, handy for heavily laden or camper conversions, though they may pass a touch more road feel into the cabin. Either way, fresh bushes restore steering feel and confidence without breaking the bank.

Popular questions

What are the common symptoms of worn steering bushes on a 2004 Transit?
Drivers often notice a dull knock through the steering over bumps, slight steering wander, or a vague on‑centre feel. A visual check under the van may show cracked rubber or the rack shifting when an assistant saws the steering wheel side to side. If the van feels nervous in crosswinds or follows road camber more than it used to, the rack bushes are worth a look.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing steering rack bushes?
It’s recommended. Even when the rack goes back in the same spot, fresh bushes can alter its resting position by a few millimetres. A quick alignment protects tyres and ensures the Transit tracks straight, which is especially important for highway couriers or camper builds.

Are polyurethane steering bushes a good idea for a work van?
They can be. Poly bushes usually last longer and hold the rack more firmly, sharpening steering feel. On the flip side, they may transmit a bit more vibration. For heavily loaded vans or rough regional roads, poly is popular, for city deliveries where comfort is king, quality OEM-style rubber is hard to beat.