Parts for your 2006 Ford Territory-Steering bushes

2006 Ford Territory steering bushes

Technical sources confirm the 2006 Ford Territory is fitted with steering bushes. The Ford Territory SX/SY workshop manual describes the power steering rack as mounted to the front crossmember via rubber insulators (rack mounting bushes), and major aftermarket catalogues for the Territory (and related BA/BF Falcon platform) list dedicated steering rack mounting bush kits. That means “steering bushes” are relevant service items on this vehicle.

On the Territory, these bushes locate the rack and soak up vibration, keeping the steering precise while stopping harshness from being fed back through the wheel. Over time, the factory rubber can soften, crack, or deform, letting the rack shift on the subframe. That’s when owners notice a dull clunk on turn-in or over potholes, a vague on-centre feel, or a bit of steering kickback. In some cases, brake shudder complaints can be made worse by loose rack bushes because the rack moves under load.

During routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack bushes whenever front-end work is being done. A quick driveway check helps: with the engine off and wheels on the ground, have someone gently rock the steering wheel side to side while watching the rack body. Any visible rack movement relative to the crossmember points to tired bushes. While under there, rule out other usual suspects like lower control arm rear bushes and sway bar links.

• Typical signs: clunk/thud over bumps, wandering or tramlining, uneven tyre wear, and visible rack shift under steering input.
• Common choices: OE-style rubber for comfort, or polyurethane for sharper response and better longevity.

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop and within reach of a competent DIYer with stands and hand tools. Replace bushes in pairs, support the rack, and torque mounting hardware to the specification in the Territory workshop manual with the vehicle at normal ride height. If using polyurethane, apply the supplied silicone-based grease and avoid petroleum greases that attack rubber. A wheel alignment is recommended afterward, especially if tie-rods were disturbed. There’s no fixed interval for these, checking every 40,000–60,000 km or whenever road feel changes is sensible—earlier if the vehicle tows, sees corrugations, or carries heavy loads.

A “while you’re there” approach pays off: inspect inner and outer tie-rod ends, front control arm bushes, and the steering shaft joints. Fresh rack bushes restore that tidy Territory steering feel and help tyres last longer, making them a small investment with a big payoff.

Popular questions

What are the common signs the Territory’s steering rack bushes need replacing?
Owners usually report a dull clunk over speed humps or when backing out of a driveway, vague on-centre feel, or the wheel kicking back on rough roads. With someone rocking the wheel, the rack may be seen shifting on the crossmember. Uneven tyre wear and a “floaty” feel can also creep in.

Rubber vs polyurethane bushes — which is better for a daily-driven Territory?
Rubber keeps the factory comfort and isolation, ideal for family duties. Polyurethane sharpens steering response, lasts longer, and resists oil and heat better, which suits towing or rougher roads. Many Territory owners pick poly for longevity without a big increase in harshness.

Do steering rack bushes require a wheel alignment afterward?
If the tie-rods aren’t moved, toe typically won’t change much. Still, it’s good practice to get an alignment after any steering work. If tie-rods were loosened or the rack was shifted significantly, book an alignment to protect tyres and keep the wheel straight.