Parts for your 2012 Honda Stream-Steering bushes

2012 Honda Stream steering bushes — what they do and when to replace

Technical references for the RN6–RN9 Honda Stream (2010–2014) show the car uses an electric power steering (EPS) rack-and-pinion. The Honda workshop manual’s Steering (EPS) section and the Honda electronic parts catalogue list the rack assembly with rubber isolator mounts, with no separate part numbers for individual rack-to-subframe bushes. That confirms steering bushes are used on the 2012 Honda Stream, though Honda treats them as part of the rack assembly rather than a routine service item.

On this model, the steering bushes sit between the rack housing and the front subframe, cushioning noise and vibration and keeping the rack located under load. When they harden or wear, the Stream can feel a bit vague on centre, shimmy over corrugations, or clunk when parking. Because the EPS motor is mounted to the rack, keeping those bushes in good nick also helps the assist feel consistent and quiet.

Servicing-wise, a quick visual check during regular maintenance goes a long way. Look for perished rubber, cracking, oil swelling (if there’s been a leak nearby), or any witness marks that suggest the rack’s been shifting on the subframe. If the steering feels loose or knocks on take-up, have a technician road test and inspect before it gets worse.

Honda doesn’t generally offer the rack bushes as separate OE parts for the 2012 Stream. That leaves two practical paths if they’re shot: fit an exchange/brand-new rack (restores the integrated bushes), or use a quality aftermarket bush kit where available. The latter can sharpen steering feel but may transmit a touch more road texture, which many drivers don’t mind.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro but involves supporting the subframe, unbolting the rack mounts, and refitting with the correct orientation and torque. After any rack or subframe disturbance, a wheel alignment is a must. With EPS, it’s also good practice to perform a steering angle sensor/EPS neutral learn via scan tool so the assist feels even left-to-right.

For Aussie and Kiwi driving—think hot summers, coastal salt, and plenty of chip-seal—checking the steering bushes around the 100,000–150,000 km mark is sensible. If the Stream spends time on rough roads or carries the family load daily, inspect more often. Keeping tyres properly inflated and suspension arms/bushes healthy will help the steering bushes last longer.

• Common signs of wear: clunks over speed bumps, tramlining, vague on-centre feel, or a steering wheel that nudges on and off throttle.
• Service tip: always recheck fastener torque after a short settling drive, and align the vehicle.

Popular questions about 2012 Honda Stream steering bushes

Do 2012 Honda Streams have replaceable steering rack bushes?
Yes, the 2012 Stream uses rack-to-subframe bushes, but Honda typically supplies them as part of the complete steering rack rather than as individual OE parts. Many workshops either fit a replacement rack or use an aftermarket bush kit suited to the RN6–RN9 platform. After any work, plan for a wheel alignment and an EPS calibration.

What symptoms point to worn steering bushes on a Stream?
Owners often notice a light clunk when turning at low speed, a slightly floaty or wandering feel on the motorway, or a shimmy through the wheel over rough patches. Visual checks may show cracked or oil-soaked rubber. These symptoms can overlap with worn control-arm bushes or tyres, so a proper inspection is worthwhile.

How often should the bushes be checked or replaced?
They’re not time-based service items, but it’s smart to inspect at each major service, and more closely around 100,000–150,000 km. Vehicles used on coarse-chip or unsealed roads may need attention earlier. Replace if there’s clear movement, cracking, or if NVH and steering precision are no longer up to scratch.