Parts for your 2009 Isuzu D-max-Steering bushes

2009 Isuzu D‑MAX steering-bushes: what’s actually fitted and what to service

Short answer: traditional steering-bushes (as in steering rack mounting bushes) aren’t used on the 2009 Isuzu D‑MAX. Technical references including the Isuzu D‑MAX 2008–2012 workshop manual (Steering section), the Isuzu electronic parts catalogue for MY2009, and the platform-sharing Holden Colorado RC service literature all specify a recirculating‑ball steering box with a pitman arm, relay/centre rod and an idler arm. There’s no rack‑and‑pinion, so there are no rack mounting “steering-bushes” on this model.

Why isn’t there a steering-bush? Because bush-mounted steering racks are a feature of rack‑and‑pinion systems. The 2009 D‑MAX uses a steering box bolted to the chassis. Instead of a rack with rack bushes, it relies on a drag link setup with an idler arm on the passenger side. Depending on build and aftermarket choices, that idler uses either a serviceable bush or a bearing. So when folks in Australia or New Zealand ask for D‑MAX steering-bushes, they’re usually chasing the idler arm bush/bearing or confusing it with sway‑bar or control arm bushes.

What should owners service instead of rack bushes? Keep the steering nice and tight by focusing on these items:

• Idler arm assembly: check bush/bearing for play and vertical movement.
• Pitman arm and relay/centre rod ends: look for looseness and perished boots.
• Outer tie‑rod ends and upper/lower ball joints: any knock or shimmy under load is a red flag.
• Steering column lower uni joints and intermediate shaft: feel for notchiness or free play.
• Steering box: check mounting bolts, leaks and adjust free play per the manual.

Symptoms that point to a tired idler arm bush or related steering bits include wandering on the highway, a steering wheel shimmy around 60–80 km/h, clunks over corrugations, and uneven front tyre wear. A quick driveway check is to lift the front, grab each wheel at 3 and 9 o’clock and feel for side play while watching the idler. Any noticeable movement at the idler or relay rod means it’s time for parts.

For utes working off‑road or on corrugated roads, inspect the idler and linkage every 10,000 km, otherwise, include it in routine 20,000 km services. When replacing an idler arm, choosing a quality bush/bearing or a complete assembly pays off in steering feel and tyre life. Always finish with a wheel alignment and torque fasteners to the values in the factory manual.

Popular questions about 2009 Isuzu D‑MAX steering-bushes

Does a 2009 Isuzu D‑MAX have steering rack bushes?
No. This generation runs a recirculating‑ball steering box, not a rack‑and‑pinion. That means there are no steering rack mounting bushes to replace. The closest equivalent service item people mean by “steering-bushes” is the idler arm bush or bearing in the idler assembly.

What are the signs the idler arm bush on a 2009 D‑MAX is worn?
Typical giveaways are vague steering, a shimmy through the wheel at suburban speeds, clunks over bumps and feathered or uneven front tyre wear. If you can see or feel vertical movement in the idler while someone rocks the steering, the bush/bearing is due.

Should the idler arm bush be replaced or is a full idler assembly better?
If the pivot is tight and only the bush is flogged out, a bush kit can be a cost‑effective fix. If there’s notable overall play, corrosion, or the pivot’s rough, a complete idler arm assembly is the smarter long‑term option. Either way, get an alignment afterwards.