Parts for your 2006 Honda Fit-Steering bushes

2006 Honda Fit steering bushes

Steering bushes are relevant and fitted on the 2006 Honda Fit (GD/Jazz). Honda’s factory Service Manual for the 2002–2008 Fit/Jazz (Steering – Rack and Pinion section) describes the rack-and-pinion assembly being secured to the front subframe with rubber mounting cushions/bushes, and Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists these as steering gearbox/rack mounting rubbers for this model. Independent workshop data providers such as Autodata and Mitchell1 also reference replacement procedures for the rack mounts on the GD Fit. So yes, this vehicle uses steering bushes.

On this model, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack housing and the subframe. Their job is to isolate vibration and road harshness, keep the rack correctly centred, and stop the assembly shuffling under load. Good bushes help the Fit track straight, give a consistent on‑centre feel, and cut down on clunks through the column over bumps. Because the 2006 Fit uses column‑assist electric power steering, these rubber mounts are even more important to keep the rack stable and protect the EPS’s steering feel.

Over time, heat, oil mist, and Kiwi/Oz road conditions (corrugations, urban potholes, coastal humidity) can harden or crack the rubber. When they’re tired, the rack can move a fraction, which shows up as imprecise steering.

• Common signs: clunks over small bumps, vague on‑centre feel, steering shimmy you can’t balance out, and a slight knock when rocking the wheel at standstill.
• Inspection tip: with the car safely raised, have a helper nudge the steering while watching the rack mounts, any rack shift inside the brackets is a red flag.

Best practice is to inspect the bushes at major services after about 100,000 km, or sooner if symptoms appear. Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: support the subframe, disconnect the column pinch bolt, unbolt the rack mounts, swap the bushes (noting orientation), and torque all fasteners to spec from the Honda manual. Always finish with a wheel alignment, as the rack’s position relative to the subframe can change a whisker during the job.

For parts, quality OE‑equivalent rubber is quiet and comfy. Polyurethane options can sharpen steering feel but may add a touch more NVH. Either way, refresh the mounting hardware if it’s corroded, and check inner tie rods and boots while you’re there—two birds with one spanner.

Popular questions

How long do steering rack bushes last on a 2006 Honda Fit?
In typical Aussie and NZ driving, they often last well past 100,000 km, but life varies with roads and climate. City cars see age‑related hardening, country cars cop more shock loads. If the steering still feels tight and quiet, they’re likely fine, any clunking or wander is a cue to inspect sooner.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the steering bushes?
Yes. Even if the tie rods aren’t touched, the rack’s relationship to the subframe can shift slightly when the mounts are changed. A proper alignment ensures the wheel sits straight and the Fit tracks as it should.

What symptoms point to worn steering bushes versus worn tie rods?
Worn bushes often give a dull clunk over sharp bumps and a floaty, inconsistent on‑centre feel. Worn inner or outer tie rods usually add measurable play when rocking the wheel at 3‑and‑9 o’clock and can cause toe change that chews tyres. A technician can isolate each part with the car lifted.