Parts for your 2006 Mazda Axela-Steering bushes

2006 Mazda Axela steering bushes: purpose, care, and when to replace

Steering bushes absolutely are used on the 2006 Mazda Axela (BK series). Mazda’s official workshop manual for the BK 3/Axela (Steering System section) and OEM parts catalogues list rubber mounting bushes for the rack-and-pinion steering gear, along with column support bushings. Aftermarket catalogues also offer replacement rack-mount bush kits for this model, confirming they’re a serviceable item.

On this Axela, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the front subframe, and at points in the column where it passes through the body. Their job is to locate the rack precisely while isolating road harshness, so the driver gets sharp response without excess vibration. When healthy, they help keep the wheel straight on the motorway, cut out clunks over potholes, and maintain consistent steering feel.

Over time, rubber can harden, crack, or swell—especially if it’s been soaked by power-steering fluid or engine oil. Worn bushes let the rack shift under load, which shows up as a dull knock, vague on-centre feel, or a brief shimmy when turning into a driveway. Common tell-tales include:

• Clunk or thud through the floor on bumps
• Steering that feels loose or wanders
• Visible rack movement while someone rocks the steering wheel

Inspection is straightforward during routine servicing: check for cracking, perishing, and any fluid contamination. A technician can safely support the rack and use a pry bar to confirm excess play. If fluid leaks are present, fix those first—oil will quickly undo fresh bushes.

Replacement on the BK Axela is typically done with the rack in the car. The rack is supported, the relevant mounts are undone, and the old bushes are swapped for new items before everything is torqued to factory specs. Many workshops will slightly lower the front crossmember for access. It’s smart to book a wheel alignment afterwards to lock in straight-line stability.

When choosing parts, OE-style rubber keeps the factory ride and noise levels, while quality polyurethane bushes can tighten response and steering precision, albeit with a touch more road feel. As a maintenance rhythm, have the steering bushes inspected at each service, or at least every 20,000–30,000 kilometres if you’re regularly on rough roads. Fresh bushes, clean mounts, and correct torques make a noticeable difference to how this Axela steers day-to-day.

Popular questions about 2006 Mazda Axela steering bushes

Does a 2006 Mazda Axela actually have steering bushes?
Yes. Technical documentation for the BK-series Mazda 3/Axela specifies rack-and-pinion mounting bushes and column support bushings. They’re fitted from factory and are treated as serviceable wear items by workshops and parts catalogues.

How long do the steering bushes last?
On sealed roads with no fluid leaks, many last well past 100,000 km. Harsh roads, big temperature swings, and oil or power-steering fluid contamination can accelerate ageing, so inspection during regular servicing is the best guide.

Can the bushes be replaced without changing the whole steering rack?
In most cases, yes. The rack-mount bushes on the BK Axela are separate from the rack and can be replaced in situ. A technician will support the rack, swap the bushes, torque everything correctly, and then perform an alignment check.