Parts for your 2014 Toyota Fortuner-Steering bushes

2014 Toyota Fortuner steering bushes

Based on Toyota’s factory Repair Manual and Electronic Parts Catalogue for the AN50/AN60 Fortuner platform (shared with Hilux, model years 2005–2015), the 2014 Toyota Fortuner uses rubber steering rack mounting bushes (“cushions”) to secure the rack-and-pinion to the front crossmember. This setup is also reflected in Australian and New Zealand aftermarket application catalogues from brands like SuperPro and Nolathane, which list replacement steering rack bushes specifically for Fortuner/Hilux of this era. So yes—steering bushes are absolutely relevant to a 2014 Fortuner.

In this Fortuner, the steering bushes isolate road vibration, keep the rack correctly located under load, and help the steering feel precise. Over time they can harden, crack, or compress, especially if the vehicle sees corrugations, towing, bigger tyres or off-road work. When they start to go, the driver may notice vague steering, a mid-corner shimmy, or a dull clunk over sharp bumps as the rack shifts slightly.

As part of servicing, a quick visual and pry-bar check of the rack bushes is smart—look for perishing, splits, or excessive movement of the rack on its mounts. If there’s free play at the wheel, a tramlining feel, or the steering wheel won’t self-centre as crisply, the bushes deserve attention. Replacement is a straightforward job for a workshop: support the rack, remove the brackets, press out the old bushes, fit new items, and torque the mounts to spec. A wheel alignment afterwards is recommended to confirm everything’s pointing straight.

• Inspection interval: have them checked during routine services, and sooner if you regularly hit gravel, ruts, or carry extra front-end weight (bar, winch).
• Rubber vs polyurethane: OEM-style rubber keeps NVH low and suits daily driving. Quality polyurethane firms up steering feel and resists oil and heat, popular for towing and touring, but can add a touch more road feel.
• Replacement tips: replace bushes as a set, keep rack centred during refit, and verify torque with the vehicle at normal ride height. If there’s still play after new bushes, inspect inner/outer tie rods and lower control arm bushes.

Done right, fresh steering bushes bring the Fortuner’s steering back to tight and tidy—exactly what’s wanted on Aussie and Kiwi roads or a long outback run.

Popular questions

Do all 2014 Fortuners have steering bushes?
Yes. The hydraulic rack-and-pinion is mounted to the front crossmember with rubber bushes. They’re separate from control arm bushes and specifically stabilise the steering rack.

How long do the bushes last?
There’s no fixed interval. Many last well past 100,000 km on sealed roads, but heavy off-road use, heat, and fluid contamination can shorten life. Inspect at regular services or if steering feel deteriorates.

Should they choose rubber or polyurethane?
Rubber keeps things quiet and comfy. Polyurethane sharpens steering response and holds alignment better under load, which suits touring rigs and towing, with a minor increase in road feel.