Parts for your 2009 Ford Territory-Steering bushes

2009 Ford Territory steering bushes

Based on technical references — including the Ford Territory (SY) workshop manual steering section and well-known parts catalogues from SuperPro and Nolathane that list steering rack mounting bush kits for the SY/SX Territory — the 2009 Ford Territory is fitted with steering bushes. Specifically, the rack-and-pinion steering gear is secured to the front subframe using rubber/urethane bushes (often called steering rack mount bushes).

On a 2009 Ford Territory, the steering bushes isolate vibration, keep the rack correctly located on the subframe, and help deliver a precise, quiet steering feel. When these bushes age, soften, or tear, the rack can shift slightly under load. That shows up as a knock over bumps, vague on-centre feel, and the wheel needing constant little corrections on the motorway. It can also exaggerate torque steer-like behaviour on uneven surfaces.

• Common signs they’re tired: clunks when turning or braking, play felt through the wheel, wandering at speed, and accelerated or uneven tyre wear.
• Visual clues: perished, cracked, or oil-soaked rubber, obvious rack movement when an assistant rocks the steering wheel with the engine off.

As part of regular servicing of your 2009 Ford Territory steering bushes, it’s smart to inspect them every 20,000–30,000 km or at each major service, especially if the vehicle tows, sees corrugations, or has wider/heavier wheels. Any power steering fluid leaks should be fixed quickly — petroleum swells and weakens rubber bushes.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech:

• Support the rack, remove the rack-to-subframe fasteners, press or pry out the old bushes, and install new bushes in the correct orientation.
• Tighten fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid bush pre-load. Follow workshop manual torque specs and procedures.
• Afterwards, check alignment and tyre condition, worn bushes can mask toe changes that show up once everything’s tight again.

Choosing material: OE-style rubber gives quiet isolation and is ideal for daily driving. Quality polyurethane (from brands like SuperPro or Nolathane) resists oil and heat, keeps the rack locked down better for sharper feel, and generally lasts longer, though it can transmit a touch more road texture. Either way, fresh bushes restore the Territory’s calm, confident steering — money well spent before chasing more complex fixes.

Popular questions about 2009 Ford Territory steering bushes

Do all 2009 Ford Territory models have steering rack bushes?
Yes. All 2009 Territory variants (RWD and AWD) use rack-and-pinion steering mounted to the subframe via bushes. While trim levels and suspension packages vary, the rack mount bush arrangement is common across the range.

How long do steering rack bushes typically last?
On a well-maintained Territory, OE rubber bushes can last 80,000–150,000 km. Driving on corrugations, frequent towing, or exposure to oil leaks shortens that. Polyurethane options typically last longer and hold alignment better under load.

Do they need a wheel alignment after bush replacement?
It’s recommended. Even if tie rods weren’t disturbed, fresh bushes can slightly change the rack’s settled position, so an alignment helps protect tyres and ensures the steering tracks straight.