Parts for your 2017 Ford Fiesta-Steering bushes

Are steering bushes used on the 2017 Ford Fiesta?

Short answer: no. On the 2017 Ford Fiesta (WZ/Mk7.5), separate, serviceable “steering bushes” for the rack or column are not used. The Fiesta runs an electric power‑assisted steering (EPAS) rack‑and‑pinion that bolts directly to the front subframe. In the Ford Workshop Manual for Fiesta 2014–2017 (Section 211‑02, EPAS – Description/Operation and Steering Gear — Removal/Installation), there’s no procedure to replace rack‑mount bushes because the mounting is a direct bolt‑up design and any isolation is integral to the housing. Ford’s global parts cataloguing (e.g., Steering Group 3504 for this model year) likewise lists the steering gear as a complete assembly with fasteners, but no separate rack bush components. Aftermarket catalogues common in AU/NZ focus on control arm and anti‑roll bar bushes for this Fiesta generation, they don’t generally list a steering rack mount bush kit for 2017 models. These technical references collectively show that standalone “steering bushes” aren’t a service item on the 2017 Ford Fiesta.

Why did Ford do it this way? EPAS systems rely on very accurate torque sensing and consistent geometry. Rigid mounting of the steering gear improves steering feel and on‑centre accuracy, and helps EPAS calibration remain stable over time. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) is handled elsewhere in the chassis with subframe isolation, control arm bushes, sway‑bar bushes, and strut top mounts. Where some older cars used replaceable rubber rack bushes, the Fiesta’s design either integrates any isolation into the rack housing or does without it entirely, if the mount is damaged or loose, the factory fix is to replace the steering gear assembly or address subframe fasteners rather than fit new bushes.

What should owners and techs look at instead when chasing “worn steering bushes” symptoms on a 2017 Fiesta? Common culprits include:

• Front lower control arm rear bushes and front pivots (clunks, instability under braking)
• Inner and outer tie‑rod ends (play, tram‑lining, uneven tyre wear)
• Sway‑bar links and D‑bushes (rattles over small bumps)
• Strut top mounts/bearings (creaks on steering input)
• Intermediate shaft/universal joint and subframe bolt torque (knocks or notchiness)

There’s no scheduled maintenance for “steering bushes” on this car. During routine servicing, a proper front‑end inspection, torque check of the subframe and steering gear fasteners, and a wheel alignment after any suspension work will keep the Fiesta pointing straight and feeling tight. If any free play is confirmed at the steering gear mounts, workshop guidance is to replace the steering gear assembly rather than attempt bush replacement, per Ford workshop procedures and parts listings.

Popular questions about 2017 Ford Fiesta steering bushes

Do 2017 Ford Fiestas have replaceable steering rack bushes?
No. The EPAS steering rack is rigidly mounted to the subframe and isn’t supported by serviceable rack‑mount bushes. Ford documentation covers rack removal/replacement and fasteners, but not bush renewal. If movement is detected at the rack, the prescribed repair is to address mounting hardware or replace the rack assembly.

What symptoms feel like worn steering bushes on a Fiesta, and what should be checked?
Clunks, vague steering and tyre wear patterns are more often due to control arm bushes, tie‑rod ends, sway‑bar links/bushes, or strut mounts. A technician should inspect those items first, verify subframe and steering gear bolt torque, and perform an alignment after any suspension repairs.

Can aftermarket steering bushes be fitted to improve steering feel on a 2017 Fiesta?
Not typically. Aftermarket catalogues in AU/NZ don’t usually offer rack‑mount bush kits for this model year Fiesta. For a tighter feel, focus on quality control arm bushes, sway‑bar hardware, fresh tie‑rod ends, correct tyre pressures and a precise alignment. Replacing a worn rack with an OE‑spec unit restores proper EPAS performance.