Parts for your 2017 Ford Everest-Steering bushes

2017 Ford Everest steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2017 Ford Everest uses steering bushes. Ford’s UA Everest (2015–2018), built on the T6 platform, runs a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember with rubber mounting bushes. This is shown in Ford workshop literature for the UA Everest/Ranger platform (steering sections) and echoed by AU/NZ parts catalogues that list rack‑mount bushes for these models.

Those bushes are small but important. They locate the steering rack, control its movement under load, and soak up vibration so the wheel feels steady without harshness. When they age, compress or tear, the rack can shift slightly, which shows up as a clunk over potholes, a vague on‑centre feel, or kickback through the wheel on corrugations. Left long enough, that movement can hasten wear of inner tie rods and tyres.

During routine servicing, it’s smart to have a technician eyeball the rack bushes. On a hoist, they’ll check for cracks, oil swelling and excessive rack movement while the steering is rocked side to side. Bush condition matters even more if the Everest does lots of towing, beach runs, corrugated roads or carries a bull bar, as added mass and rough surfaces load the steering harder.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro: support the rack, mark its position, remove the mounting bolts, press out the tired bushes and install new ones. Refit bolts and torque to factory spec with the vehicle at normal ride height so the bushes aren’t preloaded. A wheel alignment is recommended after any steering work to keep it tracking straight and protect the tyres.

• Bush material: OE‑style rubber keeps it quiet and comfy, polyurethane can sharpen feel and last longer off‑road but may add some NVH.
• Service timing: there’s no fixed interval, but inspection every service (or ~10–15,000 km) is cheap insurance.
• Tell‑tales: front‑end clunks, shimmy over corrugations, wandering at highway speeds, or visible cracking in the bush.

Whether the Everest is running EPAS or hydraulic assist, the job of the bushes is the same: hold the rack precisely so the driver gets confident, predictable steering on bitumen and out bush.

Popular questions about 2017 Ford Everest steering bushes

What are the classic signs the Everest’s steering rack bushes are worn?
Expect a dull knock over speed humps or potholes, slightly vague on‑centre feel, or a shimmy through the wheel on corrugations. If someone rocks the steering while it’s on a hoist and the rack housing shifts relative to its mounts, the bushes are due.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing steering bushes?
It’s best practice, yes. Even if toe hasn’t changed much, small shifts in rack position or subframe tolerances can nudge alignment. An alignment locks in straight tracking and protects tyre life.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes — which is better?
Rubber suits daily driving and long‑distance touring with the quietest ride. Polyurethane firms things up for crisper response and better durability off‑road, but can pass a touch more vibration into the cabin. Choice comes down to comfort versus feel and longevity.