Your Selected Vehicle
Parts for your 2006 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes
Explore 4WD & Adventure
2006 Ford Falcon steering-bushes – what they do and how to look after them
Based on the Ford BF Falcon Workshop Manual (Section 211-02: Power Steering) and well-known aftermarket catalogues from SuperPro and Nolathane that list rack-mount bush kits for BA/BF Falcons, the 2006 Ford Falcon (BF series) absolutely uses steering-bushes. These are the insulator bushes that secure the rack-and-pinion steering gear to the front crossmember.
On a 2006 Falcon, the steering-bushes isolate vibration and noise while holding the steering rack firmly in place so the wheel’s input is translated accurately to the road wheels. When the factory rubber bushes age, they harden, crack or deform. That can let the rack shift slightly under load, which shows up as a vague on-centre feel, a knock over potholes or speed bumps, or a momentary “delay” when changing direction. Because they also manage vibration, worn bushes can add a bit more kickback through the steering wheel on rough rural roads.
As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering-bushes every 40,000–60,000 km, or sooner if the car sees rough roads, towing, or lots of stop–start city work. A technician will look for perished rubber, cracking, or shiny rub marks that suggest the rack has been moving. With the car safely lifted, a helper can gently rock the steering while the rack mounts are watched for any tell-tale shift.
- Common signs they’re due: clunks over bumps, wandering or tramlining, uneven steering feel side-to-side, and visible rack movement at the mounts.
- Replacement options: OEM-style rubber (quiet, factory feel) or polyurethane (sharper response and longevity, with a touch more NVH).
- Good practice: replace bushes as a set, check the rack mounting bolts and sleeves, torque to the workshop manual spec, then book a wheel alignment.
On the BF Falcon, swapping the steering-bushes is a straightforward workshop job: support the rack, remove the mounting hardware, press out the old bushes, clean the bores, and fit the new items in the correct orientation. Poly kits often include sleeves and lube—follow the kit instructions closely. If the car still feels loose after new bushes, have the technician check tie rod ends, lower control arm bushes and front wheel bearings, as they can mask or mimic the same symptoms.
Look after the steering-bushes and the Falcon rewards with crisp, confident steering, better tyre life, and fewer knocks on corrugations—ideal for Aussie and Kiwi roads alike.
- FAQs
How long do steering-bushes last on a 2006 Ford Falcon?
With typical city and highway use, many last 80,000–150,000 km. Harsh roads, big wheels, or heavy loads shorten that. Regular inspections catch early wear before it affects tyres or steering feel.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing steering-bushes?
Yes—any time the steering rack is loosened or removed, a wheel alignment is recommended. It ensures the toe setting is bang-on and the steering wheel sits straight.
Rubber vs polyurethane steering-bushes—what’s better for daily driving?
Rubber delivers OEM comfort and low noise. Polyurethane sharpens response and typically lasts longer. For a daily BF Falcon, rubber suits comfort-first drivers, poly is great if a slightly firmer steering feel is the goal.
