Parts for your 2009 Honda Accord-Steering bushes

2009 Honda Accord steering bushes

For the 2009 Honda Accord, steering bushes are definitely a thing. Honda’s 2008–2012 Accord Workshop Manual (Steering section) and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue list rubber isolator bushes (often called rack mount cushions/insulators) for the rack-and-pinion where it bolts to the front subframe, along with a column support bush. So yes, steering bushes are fitted and relevant on this model.

On this Accord, the steering bushes cushion the rack from the body, soaking up vibration and road harshness while keeping the rack held firmly in place. When they age or deform, the driver can feel vague steering, a clunk over sharp bumps, or a shimmy that feels like play at the wheel. In bad cases, it can nudge the alignment off and speed up tyre wear.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack mount bushes for cracking, oil swelling, or excessive movement while a helper rocks the steering. Also check the lower steering column bush for play or notchiness as the wheel is turned through centre. If there’s fluid leakage from the power steering system, sort that first—petroleum products can soften rubber bushes and cut their life short.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: support the subframe, remove the bracket hardware and swap the bushes, ensuring the rack sits square and the locating tabs/orientation marks line up per the workshop manual. On some racks, certain internal guide bushes aren’t separately serviceable—if there’s internal play, the fix may be a complete rack. That distinction is called out in Honda’s service literature and parts listings for the VIN. After any bush or rack work, a wheel alignment is a must.

For Aussie and Kiwi drivers, genuine or high-quality aftermarket rubber is fine for daily use, urethane can sharpen response but may add a touch more vibration. If the Accord sees rough roads or heavy commuting, consider inspecting those bushes every 40,000–60,000 km. Listen for knocks over speed humps, feel for wandering on the motorway, and keep an eye on uneven inner or outer tyre wear—classic tells the bushes are ready for a refresh.

• According to: Honda Accord (2008–2012) Workshop Manual – Steering, Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue – Steering Gearbox Mount Cushions/Insulators.

Popular questions

Do 2009 Honda Accords actually have steering rack bushes?

Yes. The rack is isolated from the subframe by rubber mount cushions/insulators, and there’s also a steering column support bush. These parts are shown in the Honda EPC and procedures are covered in the workshop manual. Some internal rack guide bushes are not serviced separately, which is why racks are sometimes replaced as an assembly.

What symptoms point to worn steering bushes on a 2009 Accord?

Common signs include a dull clunk over potholes or driveway entries, looseness or wandering on the motorway, and a slight knock when quickly rocking the steering wheel at a standstill. You might also notice uneven tyre wear. If hydraulic fluid has leaked onto the bushes, deterioration can accelerate.

Should they be upgraded to polyurethane?

Poly bushes can tighten steering feel and last longer, which some owners love. Expect a bit more vibration through the wheel on coarse-chip roads. For a comfy daily driver, quality rubber is usually the sweet spot, for a sportier feel, urethane can be worth it.