Parts for your 2009 Mazda Premacy-Steering bushes

2009 Mazda Premacy steering-bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2009 Mazda Premacy (CR-series, also sold as Mazda5) uses steering-bushes. Mazda’s service literature for the CR platform shows a rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front subframe via rubber rack-mount bushes, and a column lower bush to control play and vibration. OEM parts catalogues and common aftermarket listings for the CR Premacy/Mazda5 also include steering rack mounting bushes for this model, so steering-bushes are both relevant and fitted.

In everyday driving, these bushes isolate vibration, keep the steering rack securely located, and help the wheel feel precise without harshness. Over time, rubber can harden, crack or deform, especially with Aussie and Kiwi heat, rough roads, or if the vehicle spends time near the coast. When the bushes degrade, the rack can shift slightly on the subframe, which the driver feels as vague steering or a dull knock over bumps.

What owners and techs typically notice when 2009-mazda-premacy steering-bushes are due:

• Clunks or knocks felt through the column on rough roads or speed humps
• Vague on-centre feel or a wandering sensation at highway speeds
• Steering wheel kickback or shimmy when hitting potholes
• Visible cracking or perishing of the bush rubber, rack movement when an assistant rocks the wheel

There’s no strict replacement interval in the schedule, treat bushes as condition-based items. A good rule is to inspect them at each service or WOF/rego check, and any time tyres show odd shoulder wear or alignment won’t hold. In many cases they last well past 100,000 km, but high heat, oil contamination, or repeated impacts can shorten that.

When replacing steering-bushes on a 2009 Mazda Premacy, use quality OEM-equivalent rubber for factory comfort, or consider polyurethane if the owner wants a crisper feel and is okay with a touch more NVH. The subframe and rack bolts must be torqued to the factory spec from the workshop manual, and it’s best to final-tighten at normal ride height so the bushes aren’t preloaded. Always follow with a wheel alignment, and while you’re there, check inner/outer tie rod ends and the front control arm bushes — they often wear together and can mimic similar symptoms.

Maintenance tips:

1. Inspect visually for cracks, oil soak, or deformation every service
2. Address engine or power steering fluid leaks that can attack rubber
3. After any curb strike or big pothole hit, re-check for rack movement

Done right, fresh steering-bushes restore that tidy, predictable steering feel the Premacy is known for.

Popular questions about 2009-mazda-premacy steering-bushes

Do all 2009 Mazda Premacy models have steering-bushes?
Yes. The CR-series Premacy/Mazda5 uses rubber bushes to mount the steering rack to the front subframe, and also uses a column support bush. Regardless of trim or transmission, the steering gear relies on these bushes to control movement and isolate vibration.

How can someone tell if the steering-bushes need replacing?
Look for clunks over bumps, vague steering on the motorway, or a shimmy when the front wheels hit sharp edges. With the vehicle safely raised, have an assistant rock the steering wheel side-to-side while watching the rack, any visible shift on the subframe points to tired bushes. Cracked or oil-soaked rubber is another giveaway. If in doubt, a technician can check during a routine service and advise.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes — which are better for a Premacy?
Rubber matches factory feel and keeps noise and harshness low — perfect for family duty. Polyurethane sharpens response and can last longer, but may add a little more vibration and road feel. For most daily drivers, quality OEM-style rubber is ideal, for a sportier feel, poly can be a worthwhile upgrade.