Parts for your 2005 Toyota Ractis-Steering bushes

2005 Toyota Ractis steering bushes — are they actually a thing?

For the 2005 Toyota Ractis (NCP100/NCP105), “steering bushes” aren’t a separate, serviceable part of the steering gear. The model runs a rack-and-pinion with electric power steering assist at the column, and the steering rack is bolted directly to the front suspension member without traditional rubber rack-mount bushes.

This isn’t guesswork. The Toyota Ractis NCP100/105 Repair Manual sections covering Steering (EPS/steering column and rack-and-pinion gear) detail the rack mounting with bolts and brackets, not replaceable rack bushings. Likewise, the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) listings for NCP100/105 show the steering gear assembly and hardware, but no “bush, steering rack” for that chassis. In short, “steering bushes” as a standalone maintenance item don’t apply to this vehicle.

If there’s play, a clunk, or vague steering, the usual culprits on a 2005 Ractis are elsewhere. Technicians typically look at:

• Inner tie rods (rack ends) and outer tie rod ends
• Front lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser (sway bar) bushes and links
• Intermediate steering shaft joints (U-joint/spline wear)
• Wheel bearings and tyre condition/pressures

Because there are no dedicated steering rack bushes to replace, the fix is about inspecting those wear points and renewing what’s loose or perished. A proper check involves lifting the front, holding the tyre at 3-and-9 o’clock to feel tie-rod play, at 12-and-6 for ball joints/wheel bearings, then watching bush movement while a helper rocks the wheel. Any clicking through the column can point to the intermediate shaft.

For ongoing care, a Ractis will reward simple servicing habits: keep tyres matched and correctly inflated, get a wheel alignment when tyres are replaced or suspension work is done, and have a front-end inspection at each service interval. If the steering feels heavier than usual, darts on bumps, or knocks over driveways, book it in—leaving worn tie rods or control arm bushes too long will chew tyres and make the car feel ordinary.

Bottom line for owners searching for “steering bushes”: on this model, that part isn’t fitted. Focus on the known wear items above and it’ll steer sweet as.

Popular questions about 2005 Toyota Ractis steering bushes

Does a 2005 Toyota Ractis have steering bushes?
It doesn’t use separate, serviceable steering rack bushes. The rack is hard-mounted to the subframe, and isolation is handled elsewhere in the suspension and column. If there’s play or noise, look to tie rods, control arm bushes, sway bar hardware, or the intermediate shaft.

What usually causes clunks or play in the Ractis steering?
Most commonly worn inner/outer tie rods, tired front control arm bushes, and loose sway bar links or bushes. The intermediate shaft can also develop movement. A quick front-end inspection will pinpoint which bit’s gone soft.

What maintenance keeps the Ractis steering feeling tight?
Regular tyre rotations and pressure checks, prompt replacement of worn tie rods or bushes, and a fresh alignment after any front-end work. Listen for knocks over speed humps and address them early to protect tyres and handling.