Parts for your 2013 Nissan Serena-Steering bushes

2013 Nissan Serena steering bushes: are they actually a thing?

For the 2013 Nissan Serena (C26), “steering bushes” aren’t a separate, serviceable component. This generation runs an electric power steering (EPS) rack that mounts rigidly to the front subframe. In Nissan’s workshop literature for the C26 Serena (Steering System/ST section) and corresponding Nissan parts catalogues, there’s no listing for standalone steering rack mounting bushes or a bush kit, any isolation pieces are integrated into the rack assembly and aren’t supplied on their own. Aftermarket catalogues for the C26 likewise list inner and outer tie rods, column joints and boots, but no steering rack bushings.

That’s by design. With EPS, the torque sensor and assist control expect a solidly located rack so steering feel, on-centre accuracy and assist calibration remain consistent. Rather than rubber rack bushes, noise and vibration control is handled through the subframe mounting, control arm bushes and the EPS control strategy. As a result, chasing “steering bushes” for a 2013 Serena usually leads nowhere because the part isn’t used as a separate item on this model.

If the steering feels loose, knocks over bumps, or wanders on the motorway, it’s typically down to other wear items. Sensible checks for a C26 Serena include:

• Inner and outer tie rod ends (rack ends and ball joints)
• Front lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Strut top mounts/bearings and stabiliser (sway bar) links
• Steering column universal joints and intermediate shaft play
• Wheel alignment, tyre condition and pressures

Any clunk felt through the steering over small bumps is more commonly a tired inner tie rod or a worn lower control arm rear bush. A light steering feel or an EPS warning lamp points to an EPS fault that should be scanned with a capable scan tool. If the rack itself is damaged or has mounting play, the OEM repair path is replacement of the steering gear assembly rather than pressing in new bushes.

For owners planning servicing, a practical rhythm in Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to inspect the tie rods, column joints and control arm bushes every 20,000–30,000 kilometres, or sooner if the van spends its life with a full load. Keep tyres rotated and balanced, and book a wheel alignment after any front-end work. That approach restores the tight, predictable steering the Serena is known for—without chasing a bush that simply isn’t fitted to this model.

Popular questions about 2013 Nissan Serena steering bushes

Does the 2013 Nissan Serena have replaceable steering rack bushes?
Not as a separate part. The C26 Serena’s electric power steering rack mounts directly to the subframe and Nissan doesn’t list standalone rack bushes in the service manual or parts catalogue. If there’s movement at the rack, the specified repair is replacement of the steering gear assembly.

What should be checked if the steering feels loose on a 2013 Serena?
Look at inner and outer tie rods first, then front lower control arm bushes and ball joints, plus strut top mounts and sway bar links. Also check the steering column universal joints. A proper wheel alignment and tyre check should follow any repairs.

Can aftermarket steering bushes be fitted to firm up the rack on a Serena C26?
It’s not recommended. The EPS system is designed around a rigidly mounted rack, adding non‑OEM bushes can alter assist calibration and feedback. Address wear items or replace the rack if required, rather than retrofitting bushes.