Parts for your 2007 Nissan Navara-Steering bushes

2007 Nissan Navara steering bushes — fitted and worth checking

Steering bushes are used on the 2007 Nissan Navara (D40). The vehicle runs a power-assisted rack‑and‑pinion steering gear that’s mounted to the front crossmember via rubber mounting insulators (commonly called steering rack bushes). Technical references confirming fitment include: Nissan Navara D40 Factory Service Manual (ST — Steering System) illustrations and removal/installation procedures that specify “steering gear mounting insulators/bushings”, the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (D40) listing for steering gear mounting insulators, and multiple Australian and New Zealand aftermarket fitment guides that supply steering rack mount bush kits for Navara D40 model years 2005–2015.

On the 2007 Navara, these bushes isolate the steering rack from the chassis, cutting vibration and road noise while keeping the rack positively located. When they age, compress or crack, the rack can shift under load. That’s when owners notice vaguer steering, a clunk over corrugations, tramlining, or even uneven tyre wear. Because the D40 often works hard—towing, touring, or off‑road—its bushes can cop a hiding faster than on a commuter.

Good servicing practice is to inspect the steering rack bushes anytime the front end is on the hoist for a service or alignment. Look for torn rubber, perishing, shiny witness marks where the rack has been moving, and have a helper rock the steering wheel while watching for rack movement at the mounts. Any play means it’s time for new bushes.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech. Expect to support the rack, remove the brackets, swap the bushes, and torque everything to the factory spec from the Nissan FSM. Because the rack’s location affects toe, a wheel alignment afterwards is smart—especially on a ute that tows or runs larger tyres. After a few hundred kilometres, a quick recheck for fasteners and any fresh movement is a wise belt‑and‑braces step.

Choice of material comes down to how the Navara is used:

• OE‑style rubber: best comfort and isolation for daily duties.
• Quality polyurethane: firmer location and sharper steering feel, popular for touring, towing and off‑road, with a small uptick in NVH.

Whether sticking with rubber or stepping up to poly, fresh steering bushes restore that planted, confident feel many owners miss once the originals have softened with age and kilometres.

Technical sources referenced: Nissan Navara D40 Factory Service Manual (ST — Steering System, Steering Gear and Linkage, Mounting Insulators), Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (D40) steering gear mounting insulator listings, AU/NZ aftermarket fitment guides for D40 steering rack mount bush kits.

Popular questions

How do you know the steering bushes are worn on a 2007 Navara?
Common signs include a knock or clunk over bumps, steering that feels loose on‑centre, the rack visibly shifting when a helper rocks the wheel, and accelerated or uneven front tyre wear. If the ute wanders on the highway or you feel kickback through the wheel on corrugations, the rack bushes are high on the list to check.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes — which is better?
Rubber keeps NVH low and suits daily driving. Polyurethane holds the rack more firmly, sharpening response and durability for towing, touring and off‑road work, with a slight increase in steering feel and vibration. Many Navara owners who tow regularly prefer quality poly bushes, city‑centric drivers often stick with rubber.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing steering rack bushes?
Yes, it’s recommended. Even small changes in rack position can nudge toe out of spec. An alignment protects tyres and ensures the steering tracks straight, which is especially important on lifted or accessory‑laden Navaras.