Parts for your 2009 Honda Stream-Steering bushes

2009 Honda Stream steering bushes: what they do and when to service them

On the 2009 Honda Stream (RN6–RN9), steering bushes are absolutely relevant and fitted from factory. Technical references such as the Honda Stream RN6–RN9 Service Manual (Steering/EPS section), the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue for RN6–RN9, and mainstream parts catalogues show rubber isolator bushes that locate the steering rack on the front subframe, plus a bush in the steering column jacket. The vehicle runs an electric power steering rack-and-pinion, and those bushes control and isolate the rack while damping vibration.

In everyday terms, the steering bushes keep the rack securely centred while soaking up harshness, so the wheel feels tight without passing every corrugation through the cabin. When they age or tear, the rack can shift slightly under load, which makes the Stream feel vague on centre, add kickback over bumps, or create a clunk when parking.

As part of routine servicing, they’re worth a look every 20,000–30,000 kilometres or annually, especially if the car does lots of city kerb hops, carries a load, or sees rough roads. A quick check on a hoist with a pry bar under the rack mounting points will spot excess movement. Any oil contamination from engine or trans leaks will accelerate rubber softening, so clean that up promptly.

• Typical signs they’re tired:
  • Knock or clunk from low-speed steering or speed bumps
  • Steering wander, tramlining, or a delayed response off centre
  • Uneven or feathered tyre wear that an alignment can’t quite cure

Replacement can be done with the rack in the car on some variants, others need the rack loosened or dropped. Always replace bushes in pairs, torque all fasteners to the Honda spec, and set the vehicle at normal ride height before the final nip-up to avoid preloading the rubber. Follow with a wheel alignment. With EPS, there’s no hydraulic bleed, but an alignment and a straight-ahead steering angle check are musts.

Choosing bush material comes down to comfort versus precision. OEM-style rubber gives quietness and compliance that suits family duty. Quality polyurethane tightens steering feel and lasts well in heat and oil, but it can add a touch more vibration on coarse chip. While you’re there, rule out lookalike faults: sway bar D-bushes, lower control arm rear bushes, and loose subframe bolts can mimic rack bush symptoms.

Popular questions about 2009 Honda Stream steering bushes

Does a 2009 Honda Stream actually have steering bushes?
Yes. The RN6–RN9 Stream uses rubber bushes to mount the steering rack to the subframe and a bush in the steering column jacket. Honda service literature and parts diagrams list these components, and they’re serviceable on most vehicles.

How often should they be replaced?
There’s no strict time limit, but inspection every 20,000–30,000 km is smart. Replace when you see cracking, oil-swollen rubber, or noticeable rack movement, or if there’s persistent clunking or vague steering that alignment can’t resolve.

Are polyurethane steering bushes a good upgrade?
They sharpen steering response and resist deformation, which many drivers like. Expect a little more road feel and potential NVH on coarse surfaces. For a comfy family runabout, fresh OEM rubber is usually perfect, for a sportier feel, poly is worth a look.