Parts for your 2015 Ford Territory-Steering bushes

2015 Ford Territory steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2015 Ford Territory is fitted with steering bushes, so they’re absolutely relevant for servicing. This is confirmed by Ford’s service/workshop information for the SZ Territory (2011–2016), the Ford parts catalogue, and common aftermarket listings from SuperPro and Nolathane that specify rack-mount bush kits for Territory SX/SY/SZ models. Those sources describe rubber/insulator bushes that secure and isolate the steering rack on the front subframe.

What do the bushes actually do? The steering rack mounting bushes cushion the rack, keeping it located under load while soaking up vibration and noise. That balance of firmness and isolation is what gives the Territory its comfortable, composed steering feel on Aussie and Kiwi roads. If the bushes soften, split, or deform, the rack can shift slightly when steering torque builds, which shows up as vague on-centre feel, a knock over bumps, or a shimmy through the wheel on rough surfaces.

Common signs to watch for include:

• A clunk or dull thud when turning into driveways or over speed humps
• Wandering or tramlining at highway speeds, with more steering correction than usual
• Sharper kickback through the wheel on potholes
• Visible cracking or oil-soaked rubber on the rack mounts

For servicing, it’s smart to have the steering bushes inspected at regular intervals (every service or 10,000–15,000 km is a good habit). Any power steering fluid leaks should be fixed quickly because oil degrades rubber bushes. Territory owners who tow, drive on corrugated surfaces, or rack up high kilometres may see wear sooner.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: the rack is supported, mounting bolts are removed, and the old insulators are pressed out and new ones installed to the correct orientation. Many shops recommend an alignment check afterwards, because subframe and rack positioning can slightly influence toe and steering wheel centring. Genuine-style rubber keeps the factory compliance and NVH, while polyurethane upgrades from local brands like Nolathane or SuperPro add durability and a tauter feel at the cost of a touch more road texture.

If symptoms persist after new bushes, a mechanic should also assess lower control arm bushes, ball joints and tie-rod ends, as those can mimic similar steering behaviours.

FAQs

Do all 2015 Ford Territory models have steering rack bushes?
Yes. All SZ-series Territory variants (rear-wheel drive and AWD) use rack-and-pinion steering mounted to the front subframe with isolator bushes, as shown in Ford service documentation and parts listings. Aftermarket catalogues also list Territory-specific rack-mount bush kits.

How long do the steering bushes last on a Territory?
There’s no fixed interval, but many last 80,000–150,000 km depending on road conditions, load, and fluid leaks. Vehicles that tow, see rough roads, or have oil contamination can need them earlier. Inspect them every service and replace at the first signs of movement, cracking, or clunks.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes — which should be fitted?
Rubber (OE-style) is quiet and comfy, ideal for daily driving. Polyurethane typically lasts longer and sharpens steering response, which some drivers prefer, though it can transmit a bit more road feel. Either can be a solid choice if installed correctly and matched to how the Territory is used.