Parts for your 2014 Toyota Bb-Steering bushes

2014 Toyota bB steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

For the 2014 Toyota bB (QNC20/QNC21 series), steering bushes are absolutely relevant and fitted from factory. Toyota’s technical literature for this platform — including the Repair Manual, New Car Features, and the Electronic Parts Catalogue — shows a rack-and-pinion electric power steering (EPS) assembly mounted to the front subframe via rubber-isolated rack bushes, plus a lower steering column bush for support. Those bushes locate the rack securely while filtering vibration, which is why they matter to steering feel, safety, and tyre life.

The purpose of the steering bushes is twofold. First, they control the lateral and fore–aft position of the steering rack under load so the front wheels track true and the pinion remains precisely aligned. Second, they isolate noise, vibration, and harshness, keeping kickback out of the wheel and smoothing out corrugations and potholes common on Aussie and Kiwi roads. Over time, the rubber can crack, compress, or oil-soak, introducing slop that translates into a vague on-centre feel or clunks over bumps.

During regular servicing, these bushes deserve a close look. Typical tell-tales include:

• Thuds or clunks from the front when turning or riding sharp bumps
• Steering that feels loose, wanders, or needs constant correction
• Visible rack movement when someone rocks the wheel side-to-side
• Uneven or accelerated tyre wear despite correct pressures
• Wheel alignment specs that won’t hold between services

Replacement isn’t strictly time-based, it depends on use, mileage, and road conditions. Many bB owners see bush wear around the 100,000–200,000 km mark, but hard city kerbing or gravel roads can bring that forward. When renewing bushes, follow Toyota Repair Manual procedures: support the rack properly, mark positions, and torque the brackets to spec at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading. On EPS models, switch the ignition off before unplugging anything, then perform a steering angle/centre calibration with a scan tool if required by the manual. Finish with a wheel alignment. For most daily drivers, OEM-style rubber bushes balance comfort and control, polyurethane options can sharpen steering at the cost of extra NVH. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants on rubber, and if fitting poly, use the supplied compatible grease. Worn steering bushes can trigger a WOF failure in NZ or a defect during an Aussie roadworthy, so it pays to sort them before they sort you.

Popular questions

Do 2014 Toyota bB models actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. Toyota’s Repair Manual and EPC for the QNC20/QNC21 bB identify rubber rack-mount bushes and a lower column support bush. They’re serviceable components and a known wear point on high‑kilometre cars.

How often should steering bushes be replaced on a bB?
There’s no fixed interval. Have them inspected at each service, many last well past 100,000 km, but harsh roads, big potholes, or oil contamination can shorten their life. Replace at the first signs of play, noise, or alignment instability.

Is it safe to drive with worn steering bushes?
It’s not ideal. You may get vague steering, clunks, and uneven tyre wear. Left too long, extra rack movement can stress other components. Book an inspection and plan on an alignment after replacement.