Parts for your 2006 Toyota Ist-Steering bushes

2006 Toyota ist steering bushes: what they do and when to replace

Yes, steering bushes are fitted to the 2006 Toyota ist. Technical references including the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for NCP60/NCP61 (listing “Cushion, Steering Gear”) and the Toyota/Scion xA Repair Manual (ST—Steering section) show the rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember with rubber mounting bushes. Aftermarket catalogue listings for rack-mount bush kits for the NCP60 platform back this up as well.

On this model, the steering bushes isolate vibration and keep the steering rack accurately located under load. That stability helps the ist track straight, feel settled on-centre and respond cleanly to small inputs. Over time, the original rubber can harden, crack or compress, letting the rack shift during braking, cornering or over bumps—felt as a clunk, vague steering, tramlining or a little kickback through the wheel.

Because most 2006 ist variants use column-assist electric power steering, there’s no hydraulic fluid at the rack, but oil contamination from nearby leaks can still attack the rubber. Age alone is a factor too—these cars are well over a decade old now—so periodic inspection is smart.

• Common signs they’re tired: knocking over rough roads, steering wander, uneven or accelerated tyre wear, and a momentary “delay” before the car changes direction.
• Inspection tip: with the car safely raised, have a helper nudge the steering while watching the rack—any visible rack movement against its mounts points to soft bushes.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent technician: the rack stays in the car, it’s supported while the brackets come off and the new bushes are pressed in with the correct orientation. It’s best practice to replace bushes as a set and torque the brackets with the vehicle at normal ride height. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, as restoring the rack’s true position can nudge toe settings.

Owners chasing crisper steering can opt for quality polyurethane bushes, they sharpen response but may add a touch more road feel (NVH). For day‑to‑day commuting, OEM‑style rubber keeps it quiet and comfortable. As part of regular servicing, have the steering bushes checked every 20,000–30,000 kilometres or annually—sooner if there’s clunking, the car’s seen rough roads, or there’s been a kerb strike.

Popular questions about 2006 Toyota ist steering bushes

Do all 2006 Toyota ist models have steering bushes?
Yes. The Toyota EPC for NCP60/NCP61 lists steering gear mounting “cushions” and the factory repair manual covers rack mounting service. They’re a standard part of the rack-to-subframe mounting on the ist.

How long do steering bushes last on an ist?
Many last 100,000–200,000 kilometres, but age, heat and road harshness matter. At this age, even low‑kilometre cars can have perished rubber. If there’s any clunking, wander or uneven tyre wear, it’s time to inspect and likely replace.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing the bushes?
It’s strongly recommended. Fresh bushes re‑centre the rack’s position, which can alter toe slightly. An alignment locks in straight‑ahead feel and protects tyre life.