Parts for your 2017 Holden Barina-Steering bushes

2017 Holden Barina steering bushes — relevant or not?

For the 2017 Holden Barina (TM series, Gamma II platform), “steering bushes” aren’t a distinct, serviceable part in the way they are on older steering systems. The Barina uses an electric power–assisted rack-and-pinion setup. According to Holden/GM Service Information (TM Barina – Steering: Description and Operation, Steering Gear Replacement), the assist unit is integrated with the steering gear, and the rack mounts to the front subframe without a separate, replaceable rack-bush kit. The GM Electronic Parts Catalogue for TM Barina lists the complete steering gear, inner/outer tie rods and boots, but no standalone “steering rack bush” part. ACDelco/GM Genuine Parts catalogues for AU/NZ also don’t show a steering-bush kit for this model.

That’s why “steering bushes” aren’t generally used or sold for the 2017 Barina:

• Electric power steering architecture with no idler arm or centre link (so no idler/relay bushes to replace).
• Rack mounts designed as part of the assembly, if mounting isolation is compromised, the service action is typically to replace the steering gear assembly, not press in bushes.
• Wear items are more commonly tie rod ends, control arm bushes, stabiliser bar links/bushes and strut top mounts.

Drivers chasing knocks, vibration or vague steering on a TM Barina are more likely to find the cause in outer tie rod ends, lower control arm rear bushes, sway bar links/bushes or strut mounts rather than a non-existent “steering bush”. A proper inspection on a hoist with the wheels unloaded, followed by a wheel alignment after any front-end work, is the way to go. If there’s confirmed play within the steering gear or excessive movement at the rack mounts, GM service procedures point to steering gear replacement. Routine servicing should include checking tie rods and boots for play/tears, torqueing subframe fasteners if required, and verifying EPS fault codes and steering angle calibration after repairs. No scheduled maintenance exists specifically for steering bushes on this model.

Popular questions about 2017 Holden Barina steering bushes

Does the 2017 Holden Barina have steering bushes?

No. The TM-series Barina uses electric rack-and-pinion steering and doesn’t have separately serviceable steering rack bushes or idler-arm bushes. The parts you’ll commonly replace in the steering/suspension are outer tie rod ends, lower control arm bushes, sway bar links/bushes and occasionally strut mounts.

What causes a clunk or play in the Barina’s steering if it’s not the bushes?

Most clunks up front come from worn outer tie rod ends, tired control arm rear bushes, or loose/worn sway bar links. Strut top mounts can also knock over bumps. Less commonly, there can be internal rack wear. A technician will check each joint for play with the wheels off the ground and road-test for EPS warning lights or calibration issues.

Is there any maintenance for the Barina’s steering system?

There’s no scheduled replacement of “steering bushes”. During services, have the tie rods, boots and control arm bushes inspected, keep tyres correctly inflated and rotated, and get a wheel alignment after any front-end repair or kerb strike. If the steering feels off-centre or the EPS light appears, have fault codes scanned and the steering angle sensor calibrated.