Parts for your 2012 Nissan Tiida-Steering bushes

2012 Nissan Tiida steering-bushes: are they actually used?

For the 2012 Nissan Tiida (C11), “steering bushes” aren’t a serviceable or separate part. Technical references including the Nissan Tiida/Versa C11 factory service manual (Section ST – Steering), Nissan FAST parts catalogue listings for C11, and common workshop databases (used across AU/NZ) show no standalone steering rack mounting bushes for this model. The Tiida runs a column-assist electric power steering (EPS) with a rack-and-pinion that’s solidly mounted, any isolation is built into the rack assembly or subframe design, not via replaceable rack bushes. As a result, there’s no catalogued bush kit for the steering rack on this vehicle, and Nissan doesn’t supply a separate bush part number.

Why it doesn’t use them comes down to design. The Tiida’s EPS puts the assist motor on the column, letting Nissan mount the rack securely to the front subframe with rigid brackets and sleeves. NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) control is handled by the column isolators, subframe mounts, and the usual suspension bushes (control arms and sway bar), rather than soft “steering rack bushes”. If play or a clunk is felt at the wheel, the fix typically lies elsewhere.

Owners chasing a steering knock, on‑centre vagueness or tramlining are better off checking the parts that do wear on a Tiida:

• Inner tie rods (rack ends) and outer tie rod ends
• Front lower control arm bushes (especially rear/hydraulic type)
• Stabiliser (sway) bar links and D-bushes
• Strut top mounts/bearings
• Steering column universal joints and intermediate shaft
• Front subframe mounting bolts and alignment

Workshop guidance mirrors the manuals: there’s no adjustment or separate bush replacement for the steering rack. If the rack itself has internal wear or mounting play, the prescribed repair is to replace the complete steering gear assembly and then carry out a wheel alignment. Trying to retrofit generic polyurethane “rack bushes” isn’t recommended on this platform, it usually doesn’t fit, can transmit extra noise, and may not meet roadworthy/WOF expectations.

As part of regular servicing, a technician should inspect tie rods and column joints for free play, check the control arm and sway bar bushes, confirm subframe bolt torque, and verify alignment. Keeping tyres matched and pressures correct also helps steering feel. But swapping “steering bushes” on a 2012 Tiida? That’s not a thing this car needs — because it doesn’t have them as a separate, serviceable item.

Popular questions about 2012 Nissan Tiida steering-bushes

Do 2012 Tiidas have steering rack bushes I can replace?
No. According to the Nissan C11 service manual (Section ST) and OE parts listings, there’s no separate steering rack bush for this model. If there’s confirmed movement at the rack, the standard repair is replacement of the complete steering gear, followed by a wheel alignment.

What causes a knock I can feel through the steering on my Tiida?
Most knocks are from worn tie rod ends (inner or outer), tired control arm bushes, or sway bar links, not from rack bushes. Strut top bearings and the steering column U‑joint can also create a clunk or notchiness. A proper inspection on a hoist with the wheels unloaded will pinpoint the culprit.

Can I fit aftermarket polyurethane steering bushes to sharpen the feel?
There isn’t a commonly catalogued polyurethane rack bush kit for the C11 Tiida because the rack doesn’t use serviceable bushes. Modifying the mounts can increase vibration and may not pass roadworthy/WOF. If the steering feels vague, address tyre condition and pressures, tie rods, alignment, and control arm bushes first.