Parts for your 2006 Nissan Navara-Steering bushes

2006 Nissan Navara steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are absolutely relevant to a 2006 Nissan Navara. Technical references including the Nissan Navara D40 Service Manual (Section ST – Steering), the D22 Service Manual (Section ST), and the Nissan FAST parts catalogue identify steering rack mounting insulators/bushes for D40 models and idler arm bushes for D22 models. Aftermarket catalogues commonly used by workshops in AU/NZ (e.g., Nolathane and SuperPro) also list specific bush kits for 2006 Navara variants. Put simply, both 2006 Navara platforms use steering-related bushes—just in different spots depending on whether it’s a D22 (steering box with centre link and idler arm) or a D40 (rack-and-pinion with rack mount bushes).

On the ute, these bushes act like tough little isolators that keep the steering gear located while soaking up vibration and road shock. In a D40, they clamp the rack securely to the crossmember so the wheel angle stays precise when cornering or braking hard. In a D22, idler arm bushes support the linkage so the steering tracks straight and doesn’t shimmy on corrugations. Either way, good bushes mean a tighter, quieter, more confidence-inspiring steer.

For servicing a 2006 Nissan Navara steering-bushes setup, a visual and physical check every 20,000 km or 12 months is a smart habit—more often if it tows, runs lift kits, bigger tyres, or sees rough tracks. Look for perished rubber, splits, ovalised sleeves, or shiny movement marks. With the front safely supported, a pry-bar check at the rack mounts (D40) or idler arm (D22) will show excess play. Common tell-tales of worn bushes include wandering at highway speeds, steering clunks over sharp bumps, shimmy after potholes, and feathered tyre wear.

Replacement is straightforward workshop fare: support the rack or linkage, mark positions, swap bushes (rubber OE for comfort or polyurethane for sharper feel and longevity), and torque everything to spec from the Nissan manual. On D22s, also check the idler arm shaft and bracket for wear, on D40s, inspect the rack boots and inner tie rods while you’re there. A wheel alignment is recommended after any steering bush replacement to lock in straight-ahead and tyre life.

• Choose rubber for OEM comfort, choose polyurethane for crisper response and better durability off-road.
• Always recheck fastener torque after the first few drives, especially after off-road work.
• If the steering still clunks post-replacement, inspect the column joints and lower shaft as well.

Done right, fresh bushes restore that planted, predictable Navara steering feel and keep tyres wearing nice and even.

Popular questions about 2006 Nissan Navara steering-bushes

How do you tell if the steering bushes are worn on a 2006 Navara?

Listen for dull clunks over bumps, feel for play at the wheel, and watch for wandering or tramlining. A quick pry at the rack mounts (D40) or idler arm (D22) with the front raised will reveal movement. Uneven or feathered tyre wear is another giveaway.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing steering bushes?

Yes, a wheel alignment is recommended. Even if toe hasn’t shifted much, locking in correct geometry protects tyre life and ensures the steering wheel sits straight.

Which 2006 Navara uses which steering bushes?

D40 models run rack-and-pinion with rack mounting bushes. D22 models run a steering box with an idler arm that uses bushes. Checking the VIN/build plate or the steering layout under the front confirms which you’ve got.