Parts for your 2004 Mazda 6-Steering bushes

2004 Mazda 6 steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2004 Mazda 6 (GG/GY) uses steering bushes. The factory rack-and-pinion steering gear is mounted to the front crossmember using rubber insulator bushes. This is shown in the Mazda 6 (GG/GY, 2002–2007) Workshop Manual, Steering System (section 06–20), which details the steering gear mounting insulators, and it’s backed by Mazda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for “insulator, steering gear.” Major aftermarket catalogues also offer replacement rack-mount bush kits for this model range, further confirming fitment.

On this Mazda, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the subframe. Their job is to isolate noise and vibration, keep the rack firmly located under cornering and braking, and help the steering feel tight and direct. When they’re tired, the rack can shift slightly, which shows up as vague steering, a knock over bumps, or a clunk when changing direction in a driveway or over kerbs.

Typical signs they’re due for attention include:

• Clunk or thud from low in the dash/front floor when hitting bumps or turning at low speed
• Steering wander or a loose on-centre feel on the motorway
• Uneven or accelerated front tyre wear alongside other worn components
• Visible cracking, deformation, or oil-swollen rubber on the bushes

Good practice on a 2004 Mazda 6 is to inspect the steering rack bushes at each major service or every 20,000–30,000 kilometres, and any time there’s been a power steering fluid leak. Mineral oil can swell and soften the factory rubber, so fixing leaks early saves the bushes.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro: the rack is supported, the mounting brackets are removed, and the old bushes are swapped for new OEM-style rubber or polyurethane items. It’s smart to replace them in pairs. If choosing polyurethane for a sharper feel, use the supplied grease and expect a touch more road texture through the wheel. Final tightening should be done at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bushes. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, especially if the subframe was loosened or shifted. Allow roughly 1–2 hours of workshop time depending on corrosion and access.

Other handy tips:

• Torque fasteners to the Mazda workshop spec and recheck after a few hundred kilometres.
• If the rack is wet with fluid, solve the leak before fitting new bushes.
• Pair fresh bushes with healthy tie rod ends and lower control arm bushes for the best steering feel.

Popular questions about 2004 Mazda 6 steering bushes

Are steering bushes actually fitted to a 2004 Mazda 6?
Yes. The GG/GY Mazda 6 uses rubber insulator bushes to mount the steering rack to the front subframe. This is documented in the Mazda workshop manual for the steering system and reflected in Mazda’s parts listings for the steering gear mounting insulators.

How often should steering bushes be replaced on a Mazda 6?
There’s no strict interval, as it depends on kilometres, road conditions, and exposure to power steering fluid. Many cars see wear around the 120,000–180,000 km mark. Inspect them at major services, and replace if there’s cracking, softness, or any rack movement that causes clunks or vague steering.

Rubber vs polyurethane bushes — which is better for this car?
Rubber is quiet and closest to factory comfort. Polyurethane tightens steering response and lasts well, but can transmit a bit more road feel. For daily commuting, quality rubber or comfort-grade poly works a treat, for spirited driving, a well-greased poly kit can sharpen things nicely.