Parts for your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer-Steering bushes

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer steering bushes: what they do and how to keep them in good nick

Technical sources confirm the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (CJ series) does use steering bushes. The Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual for CJ Lancer (Group 37: Steering) shows the rack-and-pinion assembly mounted to the front crossmember via rubber bushes, and Mitsubishi’s ASA parts catalogue lists these mounting cushions for 2007–2012 Lancer models. Aftermarket catalogues from established suspension brands also list direct-replacement steering rack mount bush kits for the CJ chassis. So steering bushes are very much relevant to this vehicle.

On the CJ Lancer, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack housing and the front subframe. Their job is to locate the rack firmly while isolating vibration and road harshness from the cabin. Whether the car has electric assist (most non-turbo models) or hydraulic assist (performance variants), the rack still relies on these bushes to hold position so the wheel alignment stays consistent and the steering feel stays sharp. When the bushes age, harden, or crack, the rack can shift slightly under load. That shows up as vague on-centre feel, a clunk over bumps, kickback through the wheel, or a pull under acceleration or braking.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart for workshops to inspect the Lancer’s steering rack bushes every 60,000–100,000 km, or sooner if the car sees rough roads. Look for perished rubber, oil swelling (from a leak nearby), or obvious rack movement when the wheel is rocked side to side with the car on the ground. If there’s play, replacement is the fix—these aren’t a lubricate-and-carry-on item.

Replacement can be done with the rack in the car on some variants, though partial subframe lowering makes access easier. Always torque mounting hardware to the factory spec and recheck after a short shakedown. Rubber bushes keep the OE ride and isolation, polyurethane options resist deflection and last longer, trading a touch more feel for a slight increase in NVH. After any front-end work, a wheel alignment check is good practice to make sure toe and steering wheel centring are spot on.

• Common signs they’re tired: steering clunk, tramlining, vague response, or uneven tyre wear.
• Helpful tip: if there’s fluid contamination, sort the source (e.g., engine oil or PS fluid on hydraulic models) before fitting new bushes.

Does a 2009 Lancer actually have steering bushes?

Yes. The CJ Lancer uses rubber mounting bushes to secure the steering rack to the front crossmember. This is documented in Mitsubishi’s CJ steering service information and reflected in OEM and aftermarket parts listings for rack-mount bushes.

What symptoms point to worn steering rack bushes on a CJ Lancer?

Owners often report a dull clunk over sharp bumps, a slightly loose or wandering feel on the motorway, and occasional steering kickback. Visual checks may show cracked or squashed rubber, or the rack shifting as the steering is rocked with the vehicle on the ground.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s better for everyday driving?

For daily use, quality rubber bushes preserve factory comfort and isolation. Polyurethane tightens the steering and tends to last longer, which keen drivers like, though it can add a hint more road feel and noise. Either option is fine if installed correctly and torqued to spec.