Parts for your 2008 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

2008 Ford Falcon steering bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm steering bushes are fitted to 2008 Ford Falcons. The FG Falcon Workshop Manual (Section 211-02 Steering System) details the steering gear mounting insulators/bushes used to locate the rack on the front subframe. Gregory’s BA–BF Falcon service manual and aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro and Nolathane steering rack mount bush kits for BA–FG) also list these parts for 2008 models. So, steering bushes are absolutely relevant on 2008 BF MkII and FG Falcons.

On a 2008 Ford Falcon, the steering bushes are the rubber (or polyurethane, if upgraded) insulators that clamp the rack-and-pinion to the front crossmember. Their job is simple but critical: keep the rack positively located so the wheel alignment stays true, absorb vibration and road shock, and prevent the rack sliding sideways under load. When they’re fresh, the Falcon feels direct and planted. When they’re tired, owners often report a vague on-centre feel, a clunk over sharp bumps, shudder or kickback through the wheel, and the rack “walking” enough to nudge toe-out under braking. Uneven front tyre wear and wandering on coarse chip are other tell-tales.

There isn’t a fixed replacement interval, but checking the steering bushes at every major service (or around 20,000–30,000 km) is wise, especially if the car tows, runs wider tyres, or has seen a kerb strike. Look for splits or compression set in the rubber and any rack movement while a helper saws the wheel left-right. If the rack shifts against the subframe, it’s time.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent technician: safely support the vehicle, centre and lock the wheel, mark the rack position, remove the rack mount fasteners, swap the bushes, and torque all hardware to the spec in the workshop manual. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. Rubber bushes keep the factory NVH balance, polyurethane tightens steering response and lasts longer, but can transmit a touch more road feel. Either way, quality brand-name kits fit the BA/BF/FG platform and are a common service item.

Practical tips owners appreciate:

• Pair bush replacement with an inspection of tie rod ends, lower control arm bushes, and front sway bar links—these parts often age together.
• If choosing polyurethane, lightly lubricate with the supplied grease to prevent squeaks and ease installation.
• After any bush work, recheck steering wheel centring and have the front toe set by an alignment shop.

Done right, fresh steering bushes restore that crisp Falcon turn-in and confidence at highway speeds, without blowing the service budget.

Popular questions about 2008 Ford Falcon steering bushes

Do 2008 Falcons actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. Both the late BF MkII and the FG released in 2008 use a hydraulic rack-and-pinion mounted to the front subframe with rubber insulators/bushes. This is documented in Ford’s FG Workshop Manual (Section 211-02) and mirrored by parts listings from brands like Nolathane and SuperPro.

How long do they last, and what symptoms should owners watch for?
Lifespan varies with roads, tyres, and driving style. Many cars see 100,000–150,000 km before noticeable degradation, but hard use or age can shorten that. Common signs include a dull clunk over bumps, steering that feels loose around centre, the car tramlining on coarse chip, and uneven front tyre wear. Movement of the rack when the wheel is rocked is a giveaway.

Should owners choose rubber or polyurethane replacements?
For a daily-driven Falcon, new OEM-style rubber keeps cabin refinement high and is excellent value. Polyurethane suits drivers chasing sharper response or running performance tyres and firmer springs. Expect a slightly firmer road feel with poly, but improved precision and durability.