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Parts for your 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander-Steering bushes
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2008 Mitsubishi Outlander steering bushes
Technical references confirm the 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander does use steering bushes. The Mitsubishi Workshop Manual for the 2007–2009 Outlander (Group 37 – Steering/Power Steering) details the rack-and-pinion assembly mounted to the front crossmember with rubber “steering gear mounting insulators” (bushes). Mitsubishi’s ASA parts catalogue for CW-series Outlander (CW4W/CW5W) lists these insulators, and common aftermarket catalogues also offer replacement rack-mount bushes for this model. So, steering bushes are relevant and serviceable on the 2008 Outlander.
On the 2008 Outlander, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the front subframe. Their job is to keep the rack firmly located while soaking up vibration and road shock, so the steering feels tight without sending every bump through the wheel. When they wear or soften, the rack can shift under load, which shows up as a dull clunk on turn-in, vague steering feel, or a little wander on the motorway.
Typical symptoms owners notice include:
- Clunks or knocks over potholes or during quick direction changes
- Inconsistent wheel alignment or on-centre “play”
- Steering kickback or shimmy on rough roads
- Tyre wear that doesn’t match recent alignments
Inspection is straightforward during a service. With the front lifted and wheels chocked, a tech can have a mate rock the steering wheel while watching the rack mounts, any visible rack movement against the subframe points to tired bushes. Cracked, oil-soaked or perished rubber is another giveaway. On hydraulic power-steering variants, fluid leaks can accelerate bush deterioration, so fixing any seep first is a smart move.
Replacement isn’t a big drama: plan around an hour or two. The rack usually stays in the car, brackets are removed, old bushes pressed or pried out, and new ones fitted. It’s best to replace them as a pair, torque the brackets to spec, and then book a wheel alignment. If the vehicle has electric power steering, a basic steering angle sensor reset may be needed after alignment, most shops can handle that.
Choosing bushes? OEM-style rubber keeps cabin noise and vibration low and suits daily commuting. Polyurethane options sharpen steering response and last longer, but can add a touch more NVH. While you’re there, it’s worth checking front control arm bushes, sway bar D-bushes and links, and the intermediate shaft for play—these all influence steering feel on the Outlander.
Popular questions
What are the signs my 2008 Outlander’s steering bushes are worn?
Common signs include a clunk on turn-in or over bumps, a slightly vague or wandering feel on the highway, and steering kickback on rough surfaces. You might also see alignment drifting sooner than it should or uneven tyre wear despite recent alignment.
During a check, visible movement of the steering rack at its mounts, or perished and cracked rubber, confirms they’re due.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing steering bushes?
Yes. Even though the tie-rods aren’t removed, the rack’s position relative to the subframe can change when fresh bushes go in. A post-repair alignment locks in straight-ahead tracking and even tyre wear. If equipped with electric power steering, ask the shop to reset the steering angle sensor as part of the job.
Rubber or polyurethane bushes—which is better for an Outlander?
For daily driving, quality OEM-style rubber keeps things quiet and comfortable while restoring factory feel. If the Outlander tows, tackles rough roads often, or the driver wants crisper steering, polyurethane offers better durability and sharper response, with a slight increase in noise and vibration.
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