Parts for your 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

2004 Mitsubishi Pajero Steering Bushes — What They Do and When to Replace

Steering bushes are definitely used on the 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP). The Mitsubishi Pajero NM/NP Workshop Manual (Group 37 – Power Steering) identifies rubber “insulators” for the steering gear, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists these as steering rack mounting bushes for 2000–2006 models. Aftermarket technical catalogues from well-known suppliers also offer rack-mount bush kits for NM/NP Pajeros, confirming the fitment for this generation.

On this Pajero, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the front crossmember. Their job is to isolate vibration, keep the rack securely located, and maintain precise steering geometry. When they’re in good nick, the wheel feels planted and consistent. As the rubber ages, gets oil-soaked, or is hammered off-road, the rack can shift slightly, which dulls steering response and can add clunks over bumps.

Common signs the steering bushes need attention:

• Vague on-centre feel or extra free play at the wheel
• Clunking/knocking when turning or hitting potholes
• Steering wheel shimmy that isn’t cured by balancing or new tyres
• Visible cracking or soft, oil-swollen rubber at the rack mounts

As part of servicing a 2004 Pajero, it’s smart to inspect the steering rack mounts every 40–60,000 km, or sooner if the vehicle tows, sees corrugations, or does regular off-road work. With the vehicle safely supported, have a mate rock the steering wheel while watching the rack, excess rack movement relative to the crossmember points to tired bushes. Also look for power-steering fluid leaks that can deteriorate rubber.

Replacement is straightforward for an experienced DIYer with stands and decent tools, but steering is safety-critical — if in doubt, get a pro to handle it. Bushes are either pressed or slid into the rack brackets, bolts must be torqued with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading the mounts. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, because even small changes in rack location can nudge toe settings.

Choosing materials comes down to use and feel. Genuine-style rubber keeps NVH low and suits daily driving. Quality polyurethane options sharpen steering and resist deformation off-road, but can pass more vibration into the cabin. Either way, fitting fresh bushes restores that tight, confidence-inspiring Pajero steering feel.

• How can someone tell if their 2004 Pajero’s steering bushes are worn?
  They’ll often feel looseness around centre, hear clunks over bumps, or notice a shimmy that wheel balancing doesn’t fix. Watching the rack while the wheel is gently rocked can reveal movement at the mounts. Cracked or squishy rubber is another giveaway.
• Are polyurethane steering bushes a good idea for a daily-driven NM/NP Pajero?
  Poly bushes give a firmer, more direct feel and usually last longer off-road. They can, however, transmit a bit more vibration. For mainly city and highway use, rubber keeps things quieter, for touring and rough tracks, poly is a solid upgrade.
• Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing steering rack bushes?
  It’s a good idea. Even tiny shifts in rack position can alter toe. An alignment protects tyres and ensures the Pajero tracks straight.