Parts for your 2009 Mazda 6-Steering bushes

2009 Mazda 6 steering bushes — what they do and when to replace

Steering bushes are absolutely used on the 2009 Mazda 6 (GH series). The model runs a hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering gear that’s mounted to the front subframe through isolator bushes. This is confirmed in the Mazda 6 GH Workshop Manual (Steering System section) and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue diagrams for the steering gear mounting, and is backed up by aftermarket catalogues from well-known bush manufacturers that list rack-mount bush kits for 2008–2012 Mazda 6.

On this Mazda, the steering bushes sit between the rack housing and the subframe brackets. Their job is to cushion vibration and road harshness while still keeping the rack located so steering feels tight and precise. Over time, rubber hardens, cracks or swells (especially if exposed to power-steering fluid), which can let the rack shift slightly under load. That shows up as looseness at the wheel, knocks over potholes, or a vague on‑centre feel.

• Common signs they’re tired: a clunk or thud when turning or braking, steering wander on the motorway, rack movement you can see or feel while someone rocks the wheel, and sometimes uneven tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack mounts every 20,000–30,000 km, or during WOF/rego checks. Look for perished, cracked or oil-soaked bushes and any shiny witness marks where the rack has been moving. If there’s a power-steering leak, fix that first — fluid rots rubber quickly.

Replacement is straightforward workshop work: support the rack, remove the mounting clamps/bolts, swap the bushes, then refit and torque to spec. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards because any previous rack shift may have nudged toe settings. Many owners choose OEM-style rubber for factory NVH, while polyurethane aftermarket options can sharpen steering feel and last longer, though they may transmit a touch more road feel.

Note that Mazda may supply the bushes with the rack assembly in some markets, but reputable aftermarket kits are widely available and serviceable on the car. Replacing bushes in pairs keeps the rack centred and consistent. If there’s still play after new bushes, check inner and outer tie rods and the column joints, as wear there can mimic bush symptoms.

Kept in good nick, steering bushes help the 2009 Mazda 6 steer true, feel planted, and stay quiet over Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2009 Mazda 6 steering bushes

Do all 2009 Mazda 6 models have steering rack bushes?

Yes. The GH-series Mazda 6 uses a rack-and-pinion mounted to the subframe through rubber isolator bushes. This configuration is shown in the Mazda GH Workshop Manual and parts diagrams, and supported by aftermarket listings for rack-mount bush kits covering 2008–2012 models.

What are the tell-tale symptoms of worn steering bushes?

Owners typically notice a knock over bumps, vague steering on-centre, or a slight shift you can feel when rocking the wheel at standstill. You might also hear a clunk when braking or turning into driveways. If the bushes are oil-soaked from a power-steering leak, expect faster deterioration.

How often should steering bushes be replaced, and do I need an alignment?

There isn’t a fixed interval, many last well beyond 100,000 km, but they should be inspected at service time. Replace when cracked, loose, or oil-damaged. After replacement, a wheel alignment is recommended to make sure toe is spot-on and steering tracks straight.