Parts for your 2013 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

2013 Ford Falcon steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are definitely fitted to the 2013 Ford Falcon (FG MkII). Technical sources including the Ford FG/FG MkII Falcon workshop manual (Steering – Rack and Pinion – Mounting insulators/bushings) and aftermarket catalogues from SuperPro and Nolathane list dedicated steering rack mounting bush kits for FG/FG MkII. That confirms the rack-and-pinion is isolated and located on the front subframe by a set of bushes.

On this Falcon, the steering bushes keep the rack precisely located while soaking up noise, vibration and harshness. They help the wheel stay pointed where it’s meant to, reduce kickback over potholes, and stop the rack shifting on the K‑frame under braking or cornering. When the bushes soften, split or oval out, the rack can creep, which shows up as vague on‑centre feel, a knock over speedhumps, or a momentary change in toe that scuffs tyres.

• Common signs: clunks when rocking the steering at a standstill, looseness turning into driveways, tramlining, or uneven inner tyre wear.
• Inspection tip: with the front wheels on the ground, have a helper saw the wheel left–right while watching the rack housing, any visible shift against its mounts points to tired bushes.

As part of routine servicing, these bushes are worth a look every 20,000–40,000 km, sooner if the car sees rough roads. Replacement is straightforward for a workshop: support the subframe as required, mark the rack position, swap the insulators, and torque the hardware to spec. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, as any change in rack position can nudge toe.

Owners can choose OE‑style rubber for factory feel or quality polyurethane (commonly offered by Nolathane or SuperPro) for a sharper response and longer life. Poly can add a touch more road feel, which many Falcon drivers actually prefer. It’s smart to renew both bushes together and replace any torque‑to‑yield bolts. While there, check the rack boots, inner/outer tie‑rods, the column coupling, and front sway‑bar D‑bushes, as all can influence steering feel.

Left too long, failed steering bushes can let the rack move enough to alter toe under braking, so prompt attention pays off in stability, tyre life and confidence behind the wheel.

Popular questions about 2013 Ford Falcon steering bushes

How long do the steering rack bushes typically last?
Service life varies with roads and tyres, but many FG MkII Falcons see 80,000–150,000 km before noticeable play. Cars on rough chipseal or with wider wheels can wear them sooner. Regular inspections help catch them before they cause tyre wear.

Will polyurethane steering bushes make it too harsh?
Poly bushes firm up the rack location and sharpen response. There can be a slight increase in road feel through the wheel, but on a well‑sorted Falcon it’s usually a welcome, not harsh, change. For a factory‑soft ride, stick with rubber.

Do they need a wheel alignment after bush replacement?
Yes. Even when the rack is carefully re‑centred, small changes in mounting height or position can shift toe. A post‑repair alignment locks in straight‑ahead feel and protects the tyres.