Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Steering bushes

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Steering Bushes

Based on Mitsubishi Motors’ workshop documentation (Group 37 – Steering), the OEM parts catalogue (ASA/CAPS), and common AU/NZ aftermarket fitment guides from brands such as SuperPro, Whiteline and Repco, the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer uses steering rack mounting bushes (also called steering gear insulators/cushions). Whether fitted with electric power steering (EPS) or a hydraulic rack on certain trims, the rack is isolated to the front crossmember with rubber bushes. So “steering bushes” are relevant and serviceable on this model.

On the 2016 Lancer, steering bushes sit between the rack-and-pinion housing and the front subframe. Their job is to locate the rack firmly while soaking up vibration and road shock, so the steering feels precise without sending every bump through the wheel. Good bushes keep the rack centred, help maintain alignment under load, and reduce noise, vibration and harshness.

When these bushes age, compress or crack, the rack can shift slightly under steering load. That shows up as a light clunk over sharp bumps, vague on-centre feel, tramlining, or a steering wheel that doesn’t feel as settled straight ahead. Owners might also notice uneven tyre wear or the need for frequent realignments.

• Tell-tales: clunks over potholes, wandering at highway speeds, or a delay between steering input and response.
• Inspection: look for tears, perishing, oil swelling (on hydraulic systems), or visible rack movement when the wheel is rocked with the engine idling.
• Servicing tip: check bushes at each service interval alongside tie rods, rack boots and column coupler.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: support the rack, remove the bracketry, swap the bushes, and torque fasteners with the vehicle at ride height so the bushes aren’t pre-loaded. On many Lancers the rack can stay in the car, some workshops may slightly lower the front crossmember for access. A wheel alignment is recommended after any rack-mount work. For EPS cars, a quick steering angle sensor reset may be required if the wheel was disturbed.

Owners can choose OEM-style rubber for comfort and factory NVH, or quality polyurethane for a firmer, more direct feel that holds geometry better under spirited driving. In Australian and New Zealand conditions, well-made bushes typically last many years, there’s no fixed kilometre interval—condition-based replacement is best. If there’s play, cracking, oil-soaked rubber, or persistent alignment drift, it’s time to fit a new set and restore that tidy Lancer steering feel.

Popular questions about 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer steering bushes

Do EPS-equipped 2016 Lancers still have steering bushes?
Yes. Even with electric power steering, the rack mounts to the subframe using isolator bushes. They control rack movement and NVH. EPS affects assist, not the need for bushings that secure the rack to the body structure.

How often should the steering rack bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Inspect at regular services and replace when there’s cracking, compression set, oil swelling, or noticeable rack movement and steering play. After any replacement, get a wheel alignment.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes—what’s better for a Lancer?
Rubber keeps factory comfort and noise levels, ideal for daily use. Polyurethane sharpens steering feel and holds alignment better under load, suiting enthusiastic driving. Both are safe choices when sourced from reputable brands and installed correctly.