Parts for your 2013 Holden Barina-Steering bushes

2013 Holden Barina steering bushes — are they actually used?

For the 2013 Holden Barina (TM series, shared with Chevrolet Sonic/Aveo T300), “steering bushes” aren’t a separate, serviceable part of the steering system. Technical references such as GM Global Service Information for the Sonic/Barina TM platform, the Holden/GM Electronic Parts Catalogue, and workshop procedures for the TM Barina show the vehicle uses a column-mounted electric power steering (EPS) unit and a rack that’s rigidly bolted to the front subframe without replaceable rack-mount bushes. No “steering bush” is listed as a separate item in the OEM parts breakdown for this model year.

Because the assist motor is on the steering column, there’s no hydraulic rack that typically relies on isolator bushes. NVH management is handled elsewhere on the Barina—mainly through the front subframe mounts, the lower control arm bushes, and the stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes and links. The steering gear itself is designed to mount solidly to the subframe with specified bolts and torque values, which improves steering precision and on-centre feel without the compliance that traditional rack bushes would introduce.

It’s common to hear the term “steering bushes” used loosely online, but on a 2013 Barina that usually points to other rubber components around the front end. If there’s play in the wheel, a clunk over bumps, or wandering at highway speeds, the usual suspects are:

• Lower control arm rear bushes (toe/caster stability under brakes or over bumps)
• Stabiliser bar D-bushes and stabiliser links (knocks over small, repeated bumps)
• Inner and outer tie rod ends (free play or vague steering)
• Strut top mounts/bearings (creaks on turning, notchy feel)
• Subframe mounts and the intermediate steering shaft joints (clunks or notchiness)

So, while “steering-bushes” aren’t a thing on this model, there’s still a fair bit to inspect when chasing steering feel or noises. A proper front-end check—levering the control arm bushes, rocking the wheels for tie-rod play, and inspecting sway bar D-bushes—will usually pinpoint the culprit. Stick with quality parts, get an alignment after any front-end work, and the TM Barina will track straight and feel tidy.

Popular questions about 2013 Holden Barina steering bushes

Does my 2013 Barina actually have steering bushes?
No. On the TM Barina the steering rack is bolted solidly to the subframe and the assist is via a column-mounted EPS unit. The OEM parts catalogue and workshop procedures don’t list separate steering rack bushes for this model. If someone mentions “steering bushes”, they’re usually referring to control arm or sway bar bushes that affect steering feel.

What should be checked if the steering feels loose or clunky?
Start with the lower control arm rear bushes, inner/outer tie rods, and the stabiliser bar D-bushes and links. Also look at strut top mounts and the intermediate steering shaft joints. These are the common wear points that mimic “steering bush” problems on a TM Barina.

Are aftermarket steering rack bush kits available for the TM Barina?
Major bush brands and the GM EPC don’t list a steering rack bush kit for the TM Barina/Sonic platform. The rack is designed to mount rigidly, fitting improvised bushes could create alignment or NVH issues. Focus on known service items—control arm bushes, sway bar bushes/links, and tie rods—for the best result.