Parts for your 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer-Steering bushes

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Steering Bushes: What They Do and When to Replace

Referencing the Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual for the 2015 Lancer (Group 37 – Steering), the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, and common aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro and Whiteline listing rack-mount bush kits for 2007–2017 Lancer), steering bushes are indeed used on the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer. They sit on the electric power steering (EPS) rack mounts and, in some cases, within the steering column support.

On the 2015 Lancer, steering bushes help locate the rack-and-pinion precisely while soaking up vibration and road shock. They’re small bits of engineered rubber or polyurethane that keep the steering geometry stable so the car tracks straight and responds cleanly to inputs. With EPS, there’s no hydraulic pressure trying to twist the rack, but the bushes still work hard to keep the rack secure in the subframe and to filter noise and harshness.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering bushes annually or every 20,000 kilometres—more often if the car sees rough roads. Technicians look for cracks, perishing, ovalised holes, soft or oil-soaked rubber, and any shift in the rack under load. Tell-tale signs include a light knock over bumps, vague on-centre feel, steering shimmy, a clunk when rocking the wheel at a standstill, and accelerated or uneven tyre wear.

Replacement is straightforward workshop fare. The rack is supported, the mounting bolts are removed, and the old bushes are pressed or pried out. New bushes are installed with correct orientation, then the rack is re-seated and fasteners tightened to spec. A wheel alignment is recommended afterward to keep toe and steering wheel centre spot on. Most shops quote around an hour or two, plus alignment.

Owners can choose between OE-style rubber for comfort and low noise, or polyurethane (poly) for a sharper, more connected steering feel. Poly bushes resist deformation and last well, especially in hot climates, but can add a touch more vibration on coarse-chip roads. Either way, keeping contaminants off the bushes—like engine oil from minor leaks—extends life. Because the 2015 Lancer uses EPS, there’s no power steering fluid to worry about, but general underbody grime and oil can still degrade rubber over time.

• Common symptoms: clunks, tramlining, vague steering, uneven tyre wear
• Service tip: inspect at regular services, align after replacement
• Upgrade option: polyurethane for crisper response (slightly firmer feel)

Popular questions about 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer steering bushes

What are the signs my Lancer’s steering bushes are worn?
Drivers often notice a light knock over small bumps, a dull clunk when turning the wheel at parking speeds, or a vague, wandering feel on the motorway. Accelerated inner or outer tyre wear can also point to excessive rack movement. A quick inspection on a hoist while an assistant rocks the steering can reveal visible rack shift against the subframe.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the steering rack bushes?
Yes, a wheel alignment is strongly recommended. Even if toe hasn’t visibly changed, the rack can sit a fraction differently with new bushes, which is enough to skew steering wheel centre and tyre wear. A four-wheel alignment gets everything back to spec.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s better for daily driving?
For a daily driver chasing comfort and low NVH, fresh OE-style rubber is hard to beat. If sharper response and longevity are the priorities—especially for spirited driving or rougher roads—polyurethane is a great option, with the trade-off of a slightly firmer feel through the wheel.