Parts for your 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer-Steering bushes

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ (2007–2015) workshop manual’s Steering (Group 37) documentation, the 2012 Lancer uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember with rubber mounting bushes. Aftermarket fitment catalogues from well-known suspension brands in Australia and New Zealand also list steering rack mounting bush kits specifically for the CJ Lancer, confirming these bushes are fitted and serviceable items on this model.

On a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the subframe. Their job is to locate the rack precisely while isolating noise, vibration and harshness. When they’re in good nick, the wheel feels direct and stable, and the car tracks straight without drama. Over time, the original rubber can harden, crack or swell from oil exposure, leading to vague steering, knocks over bumps, and a rack that shifts slightly under load.

Common signs they’re tired include a clunk when turning into driveways, a steering wheel that feels a bit loose on centre, tramlining, or uneven tyre wear that an alignment doesn’t fully cure. During a service, a quick visual check for split or oil-soaked bushes, plus a hands-on test (have someone gently rock the wheel while watching for rack movement) is a smart move. They’re not a fixed-interval replacement item, but inspecting them every 20,000–30,000 km, or yearly, suits Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

Replacement is straightforward workshop fare: support the rack, remove the clamp hardware, swap the bushes, and torque everything to the factory spec from the service manual. It’s worth marking the rack position before loosening mounts, and rechecking toe afterwards. Many owners stick with quality OEM-style rubber for comfort and NVH similar to stock. If sharper steering feel is the goal, polyurethane options are popular in ANZ, offering crisper response and better resistance to oil and heat, with a slight increase in road feel.

While you’re there, it pays to check outer and inner tie rods, the column universal joint, and the front lower control arm bushes. Fresh rack bushes can make the Lancer feel properly sorted again — that tidy, planted feel that inspires confidence on the motorway and on a winding bit of tarmac.

• Purpose: locate the steering rack and control NVH
• Symptoms: clunks, vague steering, rack movement, uneven tyre wear
• Service tip: inspect regularly, replace in pairs, confirm alignment

Technical sources referenced: Mitsubishi Lancer CJ Workshop Manual (Group 37 Steering – rack-and-pinion mounting with bushes), ANZ aftermarket bush catalogues listing steering rack mounting bush kits for CJ Lancer (2007–2015), verifying fitment on 2012 models.

Popular questions about 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer steering bushes

How can someone tell the steering bushes on a 2012 Lancer need replacing?
Look for a dull knock over small bumps, a steering wheel that feels loose around centre, or the car drifting and needing constant correction. With the front end raised, a technician can rock the steering and watch for any rack movement on the subframe. Visible cracks, flattening, or oil-soaked rubber are clear replacement cues.

Is polyurethane better than rubber for Lancer steering bushes?
Poly bushes sharpen steering feel and resist oil and heat better than standard rubber, which can be great for spirited driving or rougher local roads. Rubber remains the pick for factory-like comfort and NVH. Either way, choosing a reputable brand and correct fitment for the CJ Lancer is key.

Do steering rack bushes affect wheel alignment?
They can. Worn bushes let the rack shift under load, which can mimic poor alignment and accelerate tyre wear. After replacing the bushes, it’s wise to have a wheel alignment checked to ensure toe is spot on and the car tracks straight.