Parts for your 2012 Nissan Serena-Steering bushes

2012 Nissan Serena steering-bushes: relevant or not?

Based on technical documentation and parts catalogues, steering-bushes are not a separate, serviceable item on the 2012 Nissan Serena (C26). The Nissan Electronic Service Manual for the C26 (Steering, ST section) specifies a column‑assist electric power steering (EPS) system and shows the steering gear as a complete assembly, with no call-out for replaceable steering rack mounting bushes. Likewise, Nissan FAST/EPC listings for C26 Serena steering components do not include a “steering rack bush/insulator” as a standalone part, only the steering gear assembly, inner/outer tie-rod ends, and column/intermediate shaft components are listed. Major aftermarket bush makers also do not catalogue a steering rack bush for this model, which supports the factory position that it isn’t a service item.

Why isn’t a steering-bush used here? With the C26’s column‑assist EPS, isolation and compliance are handled by the steering column bearings, intermediate shaft joints, and the vehicle’s subframe and suspension bushes. The steering gear mounts rigidly to the front member without the kind of large rubber “rack insulator” bush seen on some older hydraulic racks. Where any cushioning exists, it is integral to the assembly and not supplied as a separate bush to press in and out during routine servicing.

If the steering feels loose, wanders, or knocks over bumps, the usual culprits on a Serena C26 aren’t “steering-bushes” but other wear points. A technician would typically inspect and address the following instead:

• Inner and outer tie-rod ends (play or torn boots)
• Intermediate shaft/universal joints in the column (binding or free play)
• Front lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser (sway) bar bushes and links
• Strut top mounts, wheel bearings, wheel alignment, and tyre condition/pressures

If free play is traced to the steering gear itself, the factory repair is replacement of the steering gear assembly rather than fitting new bushes. After any steering repair, a wheel alignment is recommended. This approach aligns with the service procedures shown in the Nissan ESM and the absence of a separate bush listing in the EPC for the 2012 Serena.

Popular questions about 2012 Nissan Serena steering-bushes

Does the 2012 Nissan Serena have steering-bushes that can be replaced?
No. The C26 Serena’s column‑assist EPS steering gear is serviced as a complete unit. The factory manual and parts catalogue don’t list a separate steering rack mounting bush, so routine replacement of “steering-bushes” isn’t applicable.

What’s usually causing clunks that people think are steering-bushes?
On these vans it’s commonly inner/outer tie-rod ends, sway bar bushes/links, or lower control arm bushes. The steering column’s universal joints can also knock if worn. A proper inspection will pinpoint the actual component rather than chasing a non-existent rack bush.

What should be serviced instead of steering-bushes on a C26?
Focus on tie-rod ends, alignment, suspension arm bushes, sway bar hardware, strut top mounts, and tyre condition. If the steering gear itself has play, replacement of the steering gear assembly is the prescribed fix.