Parts for your 2016 Nissan Serena-Steering bushes

2016 Nissan Serena steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references — notably the Nissan Serena C26 Service Manual (ST: Steering) and Nissan’s FAST electronic parts catalogue entries for “Insulator – Steering Gear” — the 2016 Nissan Serena uses steering bushes. On this model, the electric power steering rack is mounted to the front crossmember with rubberised insulators (bushes), and the steering column also uses bushings to control play and vibration. So yes, steering bushes are relevant and fitted on the 2016 Serena.

Steering bushes sit between the rack-and-pinion housing and the subframe, and in the column support. Their job is to locate the rack precisely while soaking up noise and harshness. When they’re in good nick, the Serena tracks straight, feels settled on-centre, and doesn’t rattle over corrugations. As the rubber ages, gets oil-soaked, or cops a workout on rough Kiwi and Aussie roads, it can compress and crack. That shows up as a dull clunk over bumps, vague steering, tramlining, or uneven tyre wear.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to request an inspection of the steering rack mounting bushes and the column lower bush every 20,000 km or annually. A tech will lever the rack gently to check for excess movement, look for perishing or delamination of the insulators, and confirm the column bush isn’t introducing play. Because the Serena uses electric power steering, there’s no hydraulic fluid to leak from the rack, but engine oil leaks can still attack rubber — another reason to keep the undercarriage clean.

If replacement’s needed, expect the rack to be safely supported, the mounting brackets removed, and the old insulators pressed out for new OE-style rubber or quality polyurethane items. Some EPS racks use insulators that are integral to the housing, in those cases, the practical fix can be a complete rack assembly or a model-specific bush kit if available. Either way, a wheel alignment is a must afterwards, and the steering angle sensor may need a calibration so the driver assist systems stay happy.

For owners who like a slightly tighter steering feel, polyurethane bushes can sharpen response, though they may pass a touch more vibration into the cabin. Most drivers will be perfectly served by fresh OE-equivalent rubber, especially if the Serena spends time on family duties around town.

• Tell-tales to watch: clunks on turn-in or over speed humps, wandering on the motorway, steering shimmy, or inside-edge tyre wear.
• Good practice: inspect at service, replace in pairs, and align the vehicle straight after.

FAQs

Does the 2016 Nissan Serena actually have steering bushes?
Yes. Technical documentation for the C26-era Serena shows rubber insulators (bushes) mounting the electric steering rack to the front crossmember, and the column uses bushings to control play. They’re a normal wear component that affects steering precision and noise.

What are the signs the Serena’s steering bushes are worn?
Common giveaways are a dull knock over bumps, a loose or wandering feel on-centre, vibration through the wheel, and sometimes uneven tyre wear. If those crop up, it’s worth a quick workshop inspection before the tyres cop it.

Can the bushes be replaced on their own?
Often, yes — the rack mounting insulators can typically be replaced with OE-style rubber or polyurethane. On some EPS racks, the insulators are built into the housing, in those cases a complete rack or a specific bush kit may be required. After any bush or rack work, get a wheel alignment and have the steering angle sensor checked.