Parts for your 2007 Toyota Ractis-Steering bushes

2007 Toyota Ractis steering-bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Based on Toyota’s own technical documentation and parts listings, steering-bushes are fitted to the 2007 Toyota Ractis (XP100 series, including NCP100/NCP105). The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the Ractis lists bushings for the steering gear mounting, and the Toyota Repair Manual/TIS procedures for Steering > Steering Gear show the rack mounted to the front subframe via rubber cushions/bushes and brackets. These bushes isolate vibration and locate the rack in the correct position, so they’re absolutely relevant to this model.

On the 2007 Ractis, the steering-bushes sit between the rack-and-pinion housing and the front crossmember. Their job is to damp noise and harshness, keep the rack aligned under load, and stop the assembly shifting when hitting bumps or cornering. When they age or oil-soak, owners may notice a dull clunk over sharp bumps, a vague or rubbery feel just off centre, or the rack physically nudging on the subframe during a steer-and-brake test.

As part of routine servicing, a quick visual and lever check goes a long way. With the vehicle safely supported, a technician can watch the rack while gently prying at it, any noticeable movement at the mounts points to tired bushes. It’s also smart to inspect for fluid or engine oil leaks that can soften rubber over time. While the Ractis uses electric power steering, the same fundamentals apply: the rack needs solid but cushioned mounting to deliver precise feel.

Replacement is straightforward workshop work: support the rack, undo the clamp brackets, swap the bushes, then refit and torque the hardware with the vehicle at normal ride height. An alignment check is recommended afterwards, as even minor rack position changes can affect toe. OEM rubber bushes preserve the factory isolation and are ideal for daily driving. Polyurethane options can sharpen response but may add a touch more road feel and, if not lubricated correctly on install, the odd squeak. Where specified by the bush maker, a light silicone-based grease helps prevent noise, many OEM rubber bushes are designed to go in dry.

If steering feel has gone a bit woolly, the vehicle is chasing ruts, or a WOF/reg check notes steering play, fresh steering-bushes can tidy things up nicely without a full rack replacement.

• Typical symptoms: clunks over bumps, rack shift on the subframe, vague on-centre feel
• Good practice: inspect at each service, replace in matched pairs, finish with a wheel alignment

Popular questions about 2007 Toyota Ractis steering-bushes

Do all 2007 Ractis models have steering-bushes?

Yes. Toyota’s EPC and service procedures for the XP100-series Ractis show the steering rack mounted with rubber bushes/cushions and clamps across petrol variants. They’re a standard part of the rack-to-subframe mounting.

How long do steering-bushes last on a Ractis?

In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions they often run well past 120,000 km, but life varies with road quality, heat, and oil exposure. Once there’s noticeable rack movement or clunking, replacement restores steering feel and protects other components.

Should owners choose OEM rubber or polyurethane bushes?

OEM rubber keeps the factory comfort and quietness. Polyurethane can tighten response and durability, handy for rough roads or spirited use, but may add a touch more vibration. If using polyurethane, follow the supplier’s lube instructions to avoid squeaks.