Parts for your 2012 Toyota Bb-Steering bushes

2012 Toyota bB steering bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are fitted to the 2012 Toyota bB (QNC20/21). Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists “bushing, steering gear” for the rack mounts, and the factory repair manual details inspection and replacement of the steering gear mounting bushes and the column lower insulator. Aftermarket catalogues for the bB platform also offer replacement rack-mount bushes, which lines up with the factory design using a rack-and-pinion with rubber isolation.

On this model, the steering bushes are the rubber isolators that locate the steering rack on the subframe and damp vibration through the steering column. Their job is to keep the rack centred and steady under load, soak up harshness from rough roads, and maintain precise toe control. When they’re in good nick, the bB feels tidy and direct, when they’re tired, steering can go vague and clunky.

Typical signs the bushes are due include:

• A dull clunk through the floor or column over potholes or speed bumps
• Steering that feels loose on-centre, or needs constant correction at highway speeds
• Visible rack movement when an assistant rocks the steering wheel at standstill
• Uneven or accelerated inner shoulder tyre wear despite correct pressures

As a servicing habit in Australia and New Zealand, it’s smart to inspect the steering rack mounts at every major service or 40,000–60,000 km, and anytime the front end is apart. Look for cracked, oil-soaked or squashed rubber, and check torque on the rack brackets per the Toyota workshop specifications.

Replacement isn’t a big drama for a competent tech: support the rack, mark its position, swap the bushes, and torque the brackets with the vehicle at normal ride height. A wheel alignment should follow, as fresh bushes can subtly change the rack’s position. If the column lower bush shows play or squeaks, replace or lubricate according to the manual.

Choosing parts comes down to use: OEM-style rubber keeps the ride quiet and compliant, quality polyurethane can tighten steering feel but may add a touch more road feel and NVH. For WOF/RWC purposes, any bush must be free of cracks and securely mounted, with no visible rack movement during a steering shake test.

Popular questions about 2012 Toyota bB steering bushes

Does the 2012 bB actually have steering bushes, or is it all electronic?
Yes, it has steering bushes. Even with electric power steering assistance, the bB uses a conventional rack-and-pinion mounted to the subframe with rubber “steering gear” bushes, plus a column insulator bush to control noise and play.

How long do the bushes last, and what wears them out?
Many last well past 100,000 km, but heat, oil contamination, rough roads and age harden the rubber. Once they compress or crack, the rack can shift slightly, showing up as clunks, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear.

Should they be replaced with polyurethane or OEM rubber?
For daily driving, OEM rubber keeps it quiet and comfy. Polyurethane can sharpen response and durability, handy for spirited driving, but it can transmit a bit more road texture. Both are acceptable as long as fitment and torque follow Toyota’s specs and an alignment is done.