Parts for your 2013 Nissan X-trail-Steering bushes

2013 Nissan X‑Trail steering bushes

Yes, the 2013 Nissan X‑Trail (T31) uses steering bushes. The Nissan X‑Trail T31 Service Manual (ST – Steering) shows the hydraulic rack‑and‑pinion bolted to the front crossmember through rubber “mounting insulators” (rack bushes). Nissan’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for T31 likewise lists insulator/bush components for the steering gear, and common aftermarket catalogues in Australia and New Zealand (e.g., Nolathane/SuperPro) offer steering rack mounting bush kits for the T31. So “steering bushes” are very much a thing on this model.

On the T31, the steering bushes isolate the rack from the subframe, soaking up vibration while keeping the rack located so toe doesn’t wander. When fresh, they help the X‑Trail track straight, reduce kickback on corrugations, and cut steering noise in the cabin.

As they age, the rubber can crack, compress, or swell from power‑steering fluid. X‑Trail owners often notice a dull clunk over small bumps, vague on‑centre feel, or a slight pull that comes and goes. Tyres can show feathering on the inner or outer edges if the rack shifts under load.

• Inspection tips: look for perished or oil‑soaked bushes, shiny witness marks where the rack has been moving, and listen for a knock at the subframe when a helper rocks the steering left–right with the engine off.
• Service interval: a quick visual check every service (10–15,000 km) is smart, especially if the vehicle tows, sees corrugated roads, or has had a PS fluid leak.
• Replacement advice: use quality OE‑style rubber for maximum NVH comfort, or polyurethane for a firmer, more direct feel. Replace as a set, torque all fasteners to the spec in the ST section of the Nissan manual, and book a wheel alignment afterwards.

Good workshops in AU/NZ will also check inner tie rods, lower control arm bushes, and sway‑bar links while the rack is unbolted. If the old bushes were oil‑soaked, fix any pump, hose, or rack seal leaks first—new rubber won’t last long bathed in fluid. After fitment, a brief retorque check once the bushes have settled isn’t a bad shout, and tyre pressures/condition should be set so the X‑Trail drives out straight and quiet.

Popular questions

What are the tell‑tale symptoms of worn steering bushes on a 2013 X‑Trail?
Owners typically report a knock over potholes, shimmy through the wheel on rough chip, and a loose on‑centre feel. Visual clues include cracked or oil‑swollen rubber and scuff marks where the rack has been shifting on the crossmember.

How long do steering bushes usually last on the T31?
With city and highway use they can go 100,000–150,000 km. Frequent gravel, beach runs, or exposure to leaking power‑steering fluid can shorten that. A quick check each service keeps small issues from becoming big ones.

Is polyurethane a good upgrade for X‑Trail steering bushes?
Poly bushes sharpen steering and resist oil, which many owners like. They can add a touch more road feel and vibration. For maximum comfort, stick with quality rubber, for a crisper response, poly is a fair choice.