Parts for your 2006 Toyota Crown-Steering bushes

2006 Toyota Crown steering bushes

Steering bushes are used on the 2006 Toyota Crown. Technical literature for the S180-series Crown (2003–2008) details a hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front subframe with rubber cushions (rack mounting bushes). Toyota’s EPC and workshop manuals list these cushions for GRS18# and UZS18# variants, and reputable aftermarket catalogues for Australia and New Zealand also offer replacement rack-mount bushes for this model. So they’re absolutely relevant to servicing and steering feel on a 2006 Toyota Crown.

On this Crown, the steering bushes secure the rack to the crossmember while isolating vibration. They keep the rack centred under load, control compliance so the wheel stays pointed where it should, and trim out noise and harshness that would otherwise come up the column. As the original rubber ages, it can crack and soften, letting the rack nudge about under acceleration, braking and cornering. That shows up as vague on‑centre feel, tramlining and a light clunk over bumps.

• Common signs: a thud when flicking from left to right at low speed, steering that feels floaty on the motorway, tyre wear that’s a bit saw-toothed, or subtle rack shift you can see while a helper rocks the wheel.
• Inspection tip: with the front wheels chocked and the car safely raised, watch the rack housing while the steering is nudged. Any visible movement at the mounts is a giveaway.

Replacement is straightforward for a switched-on home mechanic, but alignment and torque discipline matter. Many owners stick with OE-style rubber for factory refinement. Polyurethane options can sharpen response and resist oil and heat, though they may add a touch more road feel and idle buzz.

• Have new rack-mount bushes, retaining brackets and fresh fasteners on hand, clean the bores and apply the correct assembly lube if specified by the bush maker.
• Torque the rack fasteners with the vehicle at ride height to avoid preloading the bushes.
• Book a wheel alignment afterwards, even if toe looks close, it’s cheap insurance against tyre wear.
• While you’re there, check inner/outer tie rods, the lower column joint, and front control arm bushes—wear often travels in packs.

As a rule of thumb, have the steering bushes checked every 40–60,000 km or sooner if the car sees rough roads, wider tyres, or a lot of city kerb hopping. Fresh bushes restore that calm, precise Crown steering the model is known for.

Popular questions about 2006 Toyota Crown steering bushes

How long do the steering rack bushes typically last?
On most 2006 Crowns they’ll comfortably see 100,000–160,000 km, but heat, oil contamination and rough roads can shorten that. If the steering feels woolly or there’s a knock on direction changes, it’s time for an inspection regardless of kilometres.

Should they choose rubber or polyurethane bushes?
Rubber keeps the plush factory vibe and is ideal for daily use. Polyurethane sharpens response and resists deformation, which suits enthusiastic driving or heavier wheels, at the cost of a little extra road texture in the cabin.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing steering bushes?
Yes. Even small changes in rack position can nudge toe out of spec. A post-job alignment ensures straight-ahead tracking and protects the tyres.