Parts for your 2017 Holden Astra-Steering bushes

2017 Holden Astra steering-bushes: are they actually a thing?

Short answer: no. On the 2017 Holden Astra (BK/Astra K), there aren’t any separate “steering-bushes” used or serviced in the steering system. Technical references back this up: the GM/Opel TIS workshop procedures for Astra K (BK MY17) show the electric power steering (EPS) rack bolted directly to the front axle carrier/subframe without interchangeable rack-mount bushes, and the Holden/GM Electronic Parts Catalogue for BK Astra lists the steering gear, inner/outer tie rods, column and boots, but no steering rack bush kits. ZF/TRW documentation for the EPS rack used in Astra K also describes a rigidly mounted aluminium housing where isolation is managed by the rack and body structures rather than separate rubber bushes.

Why’s that the case? Modern EPS racks are designed for precise on-centre feel and accurate assistance mapping. A compliant rubber rack bush would allow the rack to shift under load, which can blur steering response and upset EPS calibration. Instead, NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) is managed upstream and downstream—via the subframe mounts, steering column isolators, tyre construction and suspension bushings—so the steering gear can stay positively located.

So if someone’s chasing “steering-bushes” for a 2017 Astra, they’re usually after different parts that affect steering feel:

• Inner and outer tie rods (common wear items that cause play or clunks)
• Front lower control arm bushes (impact steering feel and braking stability)
• Stabiliser bar (sway bar) bushes and links (can knock over bumps)
• Strut top mounts/bearings (can creak or bind when turning)

If there’s free play, vibration or a knock you reckon is “steering-bush” related, a proper inspection should start with the tie rods and ball joints, then move through the control arm bushes and sway bar hardware. Any time steering or suspension work is done, book a wheel alignment and ensure all fasteners are torqued to the Holden spec. If the EPS rack itself is worn or damaged, it’s replaced as a complete assembly rather than re-bushed.

References consulted: GM/Opel TIS (Astra K/BK MY17) Steering Gear and Front Axle Carrier procedures, Holden/GM EPC for BK Astra (Group 6 – Steering), ZF TRW EPS rack application information for Astra K platform.

Popular questions

Does the 2017 Holden Astra have steering rack bushes I can replace?

No. The EPS steering rack on the BK Astra mounts directly to the subframe and isn’t designed with separate, serviceable rack-mount bushes. If there’s movement or noise, have the inner/outer tie rods, control arm bushes and sway bar components checked first.

What should I look at if my Astra’s steering feels loose?

Start with inner and outer tie rod ends for play, then inspect lower control arm bushes, sway bar links/bushes and the strut top mounts. Tyre condition and pressures also matter. If all those pass, an alignment and a diagnostic scan of the EPS can help pinpoint the issue.

Can I fit aftermarket polyurethane steering bushes to sharpen the feel?

Not on this model. There aren’t dedicated rack bushes to swap. Aftermarket poly options apply to suspension bushes (like control arms), which can firm things up at the cost of some NVH. Any changes should be done with care so the EPS and overall ride/handling balance aren’t compromised.