Parts for your 2014 Ford Territory-Steering bushes

2014 Ford Territory steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2014 Ford Territory does use steering bushes. The SZ Territory runs a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear mounted to the front subframe via rubberised mounting bushes. This is confirmed in the Ford SZ Territory Workshop Manual (Section 211‑02 Steering System), which details the steering gear mounting bushings and related fasteners, and is supported by listings in Australian aftermarket catalogues from brands like Nolathane and SuperPro that supply rack‑mount bush kits for 2011–2016 Territory models. So, “steering bushes” are absolutely relevant on this vehicle.

On this Territory, the steering bushes isolate vibration and road harshness, keep the rack correctly located under load, and help the wheel alignment stay true under braking and cornering. When they age, harden or tear, drivers can notice clunks over bumps, a loose or wandering feel on the motorway, mid‑corner knock, or faster tyre wear. Oil contamination from leaks can also soften the rubber and speed up failure.

For anyone servicing a 2014 Ford Territory, it’s smart to inspect the steering rack bushes at the same time as front control arm and stabiliser bar bushes. A quick torch check for cracking, separation from the sleeve, or excessive rack movement while a helper rocks the steering can save a lot of grief later. Many owners see long life from the originals, but rough roads, towing and high kilometres will bring forward replacement.

• Typical check interval: every 40,000–60,000 km or annually if driving on corrugations.
• Tell‑tale signs: steering clunk, vague on‑centre feel, tramlining, uneven inner/outer tyre wear.
• Good practice: replace bushes in pairs and torque all fasteners to factory specification with the vehicle at ride height.

Replacement can be done in‑car on most Territories with basic hand tools and a support for the rack, though access is tighter on some models. Many techs choose upgraded polyurethane bushes for sharper steering and durability, OE‑style rubber keeps it extra quiet. After fitting, a wheel alignment is recommended, and if the column was disconnected or any steering angle faults appear, a quick steering angle sensor reset with a scan tool sorts it.

Look after the steering bushes and the Territory rewards with confident turn‑in, calmer NVH, and tyres that wear nice and evenly.

Popular questions about 2014 Ford Territory steering bushes

Do all 2014 Ford Territory models have steering rack bushes?

They do. All SZ‑series Territories use a rack‑and‑pinion setup mounted with bushes on the front subframe. The Ford workshop documentation and local bush kit suppliers both list compatible rack‑mount bushes across petrol and diesel variants.

What symptoms point to worn steering bushes on a Territory?

Common signs include a knock over sharp bumps, vague steering on the motorway, the wheel not self‑centring crisply, and uneven tyre wear. If someone can rock the steering while another watches the rack, visible movement at the mounts usually confirms it.

Can the bushes be replaced without a full wheel alignment?

If the tie‑rods aren’t disturbed, alignment may not shift much. That said, best practice is to check and adjust alignment after any steering gear work. It’s quick insurance for even tyre wear and straight tracking.